In an interview with N1, former U.S. Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina Eric Nelson emphasized that despite speculation surrounding the change in U.S. leadership, there is no reason to expect a significant shift in Washington’s stance toward Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Reflecting on past policies, Nelson noted that Washington’s approach to the region has remained consistent, particularly in areas such as territorial integrity, sovereignty, and promoting progress.
“Our commitment to combating corruption and countering those who undermine the Dayton Agreement or democracy remains unchanged,” he explained. Nelson added that during the first Trump administration, economic and financial sanctions were used to advance U.S. interests and predicted this approach would likely continue. He also suggested that leadership transitions offer a chance to reassess strategies and dispel unhelpful narratives, such as claims that Washington is biased against Serbs, Croats, or Bosniaks. “Washington simply supports Bosnia and Herzegovina as a whole,” he clarified.
When asked about claims from Banja Luka alleging that “political Sarajevo” influences U.S. sanctions through directives to the U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo, Nelson dismissed this as an oversimplification, explaining that the sanctions process is thorough and evidence-based.
“The fundamental principles of these sanctions are the same as they were four years ago: supporting the full implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement and fighting corruption,” Nelson stated. He highlighted that the sanctions process involves extensive research and documentation, targeting actions harmful to Bosnia’s progress. “While we do not enjoy imposing sanctions, they serve as a deterrent and a reminder for local authorities to address high-level corruption,” he said, pointing out recent successes in prosecuting corruption as a positive development for Bosnia's credibility.
Addressing those who portray themselves as victims of sanctions, Nelson remarked: “Sanctions are based on facts, not rhetoric. Some individuals use the sanctions to frame themselves as victims, but the purpose is to deter actions that hinder Bosnia’s success and encourage constructive progress. We hope leaders will take these steps.”
Nelson also underscored that the solutions to Bosnia’s challenges must come from within the country, not from Washington, Capitol Hill, or the State Department.
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