Books Butterfly Editorial Reviews

Verified – On the Ground with the Kosovo Verification Mission – Editorial Review

Marc Schifanelli’s Verified: On the Ground with the Kosovo Verification Mission is an authentic, accurate, well-balanced and insightful account of events in Kosovo before and during the Kosovo War.

The author, Marc Schifanelli, is a former US Army Special Forces officer and was an intelligence officer with access to actual on-the-ground intelligence in Kosovo. He had access to data from hundreds of observer teams (in 1998 and 1999) as part of the Fusion team of the Kosovo Verification Mission. His book is, arguably, the closest one can get to ‘the truth of what actually happened in Kosovo’.

Books Butterfly Editorial Review of Verified – On the Ground with the Kosovo Verification Mission

Introduction & Context

Verified: On the Ground with the Kosovo Verification Mission is a non-fiction narrative, specifically in the subgenres of history and geopolitics, where Marc Schifanelli becomes our guide through the complexities of the Kosovo crisis.

Laden with open-source notes, maps, and intelligence reports in his backpack, the author takes us on a journey that unravels the layers of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia’s security forces, the insurgency of the Kosovo Liberation Army, and the turbulent lives of non-combatant communities ensnared in the grip of violence and civil unrest.

In this immersive exploration, Schifanelli skillfully intertwines personal experiences with historical and geopolitical forces, offering readers a front-row seat to one of the most tumultuous periods in recent history.

Main Review for Verified: On the Ground with the Kosovo Verification Mission

Schifanelli expertly captures the essence of the Kosovo Verification Mission, highlighting the fusion of open-source information collected by unarmed observer teams across the region. The narrative unfolds with intense moments, such as firefights and kidnappings, symbolizing a society in upheaval due to internal, cultural, political, historical, and international forces.

The bid by Military Professional Resources Incorporated (MPVI) for a U.S. government mission adds complexity, intertwining the experiences of ex-soldiers with the historical struggles of the Serbs and other resistance forces.

The book delves deep into the conflict’s multifaceted aspects, exploring everything from routine police duties to forced population displacement and the strategic goals of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA). It provides a nuanced understanding of the geopolitical landscape, unraveling complexities like the Holbreeke milestone agreement and shedding light on the KLA’s aspirations for a free and independent Kosovo.

Schifanelli’s portrayal of the Kosovo mission as an opportunity for officers’ personal growth and enhanced public security skills connects individual experiences with the broader geopolitical context. The narrative adeptly navigates through joint operations, police duties, and the intricate web of political and military strategies, offering readers a comprehensive perspective on a tumultuous period in history.

Strengths

Verified: On the Ground with the Kosovo Verification Mission shines in its comprehensive approach, merging first-hand experiences with historical context. Schifanelli navigates the complex political landscape, making it accessible to readers.

The book’s real strength lies in its ability to connect historical dots, making it a relevant read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Kosovo crisis.

The deeper dive into the personal experiences of individuals involved emerges as a potential strength, offering the opportunity to forge a more profound emotional connection between the narrative and the reader.

Weaknesses

The book’s pacing at the start is somehow slow but as one continues reading, it becomes increasingly interesting. Staying with the book really pays off – So don’t let the slow start dissuade you.

Conclusion

“Verified” leaves readers with a lingering awareness of the human rights violations committed by various factions. It serves as both a chronicle of a specific moment in history and a mirror reflecting the complexities inherent in the pursuit of peace and justice.

Schifanelli’s masterful narrative invites readers to grapple with the enduring questions that arise from the pages of this riveting and impactful account.

Schifanelli’s work stands not only as a historical account but also as a call to reflect on the broader implications of conflict resolution and the pursuit of justice.

Overall Recommendation for Verified: On the Ground with the Kosovo Verification Mission

I wholeheartedly recommend “Verified” with a score of 95/100. It’s a must-read for those seeking a nuanced understanding of the Kosovo crisis, blending historical accuracy with personal narratives.

Verified is also a good book for Scholars and students studying international relations, conflict resolution, and modern history. They  will find “Verified” to be a valuable resource for in-depth research and analysis.

Finally, anyone seeking a captivating, firsthand account that goes beyond traditional historical narratives will appreciate the storytelling and personal experiences on “Verified”.

For readers interested in what happened in Kosovo – 95/100. Very Strongly Recommended.

For readers interested in Current Affairs and Politics and Diplomacy – 90/100. Very Strongly Recommended.

For readers interested in Military History & European History – 100/100. Absolute Must Read.

For readers interested in what is happening in the world today and understanding the truth – 85/100. Strongly Recommended.

Curator’s Thoughts

We live in a world where all matters of wars and other crimes against humanity are justified using propaganda and manipulation and influence. It is refreshing that someone with access to the truth has shared an accurate and unbiased (to the largest extent possible) account of what really happened in Kosovo.

The author, Marc Schifanelli, brings up a few questions that every sensible person should consider

1. Why was there a huge gap between what was happening on the ground in Kosovo, and what was being portrayed in Western Media?
2. Was there ethnic cleansing in Kosovo from the start, or did the cleansing begin only after the intervention of outside armed forces (NATO)?
3. Why/How is it possible that the intervention of NATO led to a result which was completely the opposite of what NATO had promised?

This is a book that will make you think deeply about the nature of war and the nature of propaganda.

You can click on the Author picture below to read more about the author and verify he has the credentials and experience required to write this book.

Where to get Verified – On the Ground with the Kosovo Verification Mission by March Schifanelli

You can get Verified: On the Ground with the Kosovo Verification Mission at

1. Amazon Kindle Store for the Kindle eBook
2. Amazon.com for the Paperback
3. Amazon.com for the Hardcover

You can read more about the Author, Marc Schifanelli at his Amazon Author Page. There is also a page listing all Marc Schifanelli books.