The US Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina assessed as dangerous the recent statement by Russian Ambassador to BiH Igor Kalabukhov on Bosnia's potential NATO membership, calling it a “threat” to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Speaking to public broadcaster in Bosnia's Federation entity, FTV, Kalabukhov said that Bosnia's decision to become a member state of any alliance is the country's internal matter but that “our response is a different matter.”

“Ukraine's example shows what we expect,” he said.

The US Embassy said in response that such decisions are solely a matter for a sovereign country.

“The Russian Ambassador’s latest threats to Bosnia and Herzegovina are dangerous, irresponsible, and unacceptable. No third party has a say in security arrangements between NATO and sovereign countries,” the embassy said.

The Embassy also reiterated its support to Bosnia and Herzegovina “as it takes the necessary steps to secure its place in the Euro-Atlantic integration.”

The Russian Ambassador’s latest threats to Bosnia and Herzegovina are dangerous, irresponsible, and unacceptable. No third party has a say in security arrangements between NATO and sovereign countries. (1/2)

— US Embassy Sarajevo (@USEmbassySJJ) March 17, 2022

Russian Ambassador's statement was also strongly condemned by Bosnia Presidency Chairman Zeljko Komsic, who said that the decision to join the NATO can be only decision of Bosnia's institution and not a cause for an attack on the country.