Komsic: Russia’s actions show coordinated diplomatic offensive backing Dodik

Speaking to FENA on Wednesday, Komsic said Dodik is “desperately seeking Moscow’s protection, not only for himself but also for the moves he is making.” He pointed to recent comments by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov after a meeting with Dodik in Moscow, as well as remarks from Russian Ambassador Aleksandar Harchenko in Belgrade, who hinted days earlier that Russia would step in to support Dodik.

Lavrov announced that the Security Council will convene on October 31, a date that coincides with regular discussions on extending EUFOR ALTHEA’s mandate and reviewing the High Representative’s report. With Russia presiding over the Council, Komsic said Moscow is setting the pace of developments.

“I intend to be at that session and present our side of the story, so it doesn’t end with only what Russia says. I have no doubt Serbia will support them, perhaps alongside some other members,” Komsic stressed.

He warned that Lavrov’s comments carried an implicit threat of a Russian veto on the mission’s extension. Such a move, Komsic noted, would trigger provisions under the Dayton Peace Agreement allowing NATO forces to step in and replace EUFOR. “Whether Russia will risk this scenario, hoping the US intervenes to block NATO’s deployment in Bosnia, remains to be seen. But legally, if there’s no ALTHEA, then NATO comes in,” he said.

Komsic added that such an outcome would not serve Russia’s interests, which has consistently considered the possibility of NATO forces replacing EUFOR whenever it weighed its position on mandate renewals.

Looking ahead, Komsic said Bosnia will intensify diplomatic engagement with Security Council allies to neutralise Russian threats and prevent further instability.

“Worsening the situation in Bosnia means destabilising the entire region, and I don’t see whose rational interest that serves,” he said, adding that Dodik “resembles a drowning man grasping for air” and should ultimately end his political career.