KFOR spokesman Pio Sabetta dismissed speculation that the redeployment of peacekeeping forces in northern Kosovo was linked with efforts to define the status of the UN-administered province.
But diplomatic sources in Kosovo claim that KFOR is preparing for a possible unilateral intervention from Serbia aimed at dividing Kosovo in case the province gains independence.
KFOR withdrew from the military base in northern Kosovo a few years ago, but mobile peacekeeping teams have remained there.
The Kosovo government has welcomed the deployment of KFOR troops in northern Kosovo, seeing it as commitment to preserving border stability and control.