NATO reaffirms support for EUFOR “Althea” amid RS secession threats

The statement comes in response to recent remarks by former Republika Srpska (RS) president Milorad Dodik, who told Russian media that he intends to seek Moscow’s backing to veto the EUFOR mandate extension at the UN Security Council and to support a referendum on RS independence.

“Any threat of secession is destabilising and dangerous. We strongly support the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina and back its legitimate state institutions,” the NATO official said. The alliance stressed its continued dedication to political dialogue and practical cooperation with Bosnia through the NATO Headquarters in Sarajevo and political engagement support cells.

The official also highlighted NATO’s support for Bosnia’s defence reform efforts under the NATO Defence Capacity Building Package, which strengthens capabilities in crisis management, cyber defence, counter-terrorism, and interoperability of the Armed Forces of BiH with NATO standards.

“This year, we expect to launch several programs covering areas such as counter-terrorism, cyber defence, air evacuation, military policing, and crisis management,” the NATO official added. More than €8 million has already been invested in a dedicated “Trust Fund,” and NATO allies continue to appoint experts to oversee specific initiatives.

The official stressed that NATO works closely with the European Union to ensure that efforts are complementary, coordinating on shared priorities including air surveillance, cyber defence, and counter-terrorism. The Defence Capacity Building Package builds on strong cooperation in professional military education and good governance, with discussions ongoing on further areas of collaboration with Bosnian authorities.

NATO’s statement underscores the alliance’s firm position against unilateral moves that could destabilise Bosnia and reinforces its commitment to supporting the country’s security and institutional integrity.