Economic expert Svetlana Cenic spoke to N1 about the economy, society, and politics following the latest US sanctions targeting UNA TV and six other companies linked to the family of Milorad Dodik, the President of Bosnia's Republika Srpska entity.

“The latest US sanctions were entirely predictable,” Cenic emphasized.

“These companies have been under suspicion for a long time, with various lists circulating. It was only a matter of time before the reckoning came. Everyone knows that Dodik's political career was nurtured by the US administration. Our situation is worsening, with a non-functional judiciary and no legal proceedings initiated, giving the US the right to blacklist individuals. The fact that the US is the most influential in financial flows is a different matter altogether,” she said.

She recalled that many people mocked the initial sanctions lists, making jokes and even hurling insults. “I'm tired of the narrative about ‘outgoing ambassadors’ while more people keep getting added to the blacklists. This is the result – an expanded blacklist,” Cenic stated.

RS – Dodik’s private property

Regarding Republika Srpska, Cenic noted that it has long been privatized, saying, “It's like Dodik and his circle consider it their private property. The damage done to RS is immeasurable and catastrophic. It’s deeply in debt, struggling to find funds to repay loans and maintain the budget. With US dominance in global financial institutions like the World Bank and IMF, it's hard to foresee any financial relief for RS or BiH. We’ve allowed this situation to persist for years, hoping for a miracle.”

Cenic also questioned why the Banking Agency, responsible for overseeing commercial banks, hasn't addressed how people will receive their salaries under these sanctions. “Income cannot be revoked, so why hasn't there been a push for a solution with the Ministry of Finance to ensure people can still get paid?” she asked.

In conclusion, Cenic acknowledged that many will be affected job-wise but pointed out that those involved were aware of the risks and chose to be compliant and obedient.