Eric Nelson, former U.S. Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, told N1 that despite speculation surrounding the change in U.S. administration, significant shifts in U.S. policy toward Bosnia and Herzegovina are unlikely. According to Nelson, recent history shows that the U.S. approach to the region has remained consistent, especially concerning territorial integrity, sovereignty, and promoting stability.

“Our commitment to fighting corruption, deterring and countering those who undermine the Dayton Agreement, and opposing actions that threaten democracy remains constant,” Nelson said. He added that during Donald Trump's first term, the administration still supported economic and financial sanctions to advance U.S. interests, and he expects the same approach to continue.

Nelson addressed claims from Banja Luka that the U.S. imposes sanctions based on influence from “political Sarajevo,” explaining that the process is far more complex. “Expect the core principles of these sanctions to continue as they did four years ago. They aim to support the full implementation of the Dayton Agreement and combat corruption,” he said, emphasizing that sanctions are a well-documented, investigative process.

He further argued that sanctions are intended to deter harmful behavior. “The purpose is to discourage actions that undermine Bosnia and Herzegovina's success and to encourage the country to move in a constructive direction. We hope that leaders will take these steps,” Nelson stated.