Dodik urges US to clarify its position on OHR, reject Schmidt’s authority

Speaking at a press conference in Banja Luka, Dodik said:

“The US has changed its policy, and we support that, but if that’s true, then they must immediately reject the OHR as an instrument of interference in internal affairs.”

He reiterated that American officials have recently stated that the US “will not interfere in internal matters,” and announced that he would be seeking clarity on that point from the new US administration.

“We will ask the Americans what their official stance is. They must clearly state whether they continue to support interference in internal affairs or whether they will abandon Schmidt, who has neither the authority nor the right to be involved in these issues.”

Dodik also claimed that the European Union is backing the decisions of High Representative Christian Schmidt, but emphasised that Republika Srpska will continue to act according to its own priorities and beliefs.

“All the talk about transferring power at the state level was a product of certain European circles that failed in their attempt. Does anyone really believe that some 'Troika’ from Republika Srpska and some ‘Troika’ from the Federation of BiH have a real chance to accomplish anything in BiH? I don’t think even delusional idealists believe that,” Dodik said.

The remarks come amid growing tensions between Republika Srpska and international institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly over recent decisions imposed by Schmidt, whom RS authorities continue to reject as illegitimate.