Vucic: Dodik's verdict is directed against the Serb people as a whole

"This verdict not only shows the attitude towards Dodik, who certainly isn’t having an easy time, even if he doesn’t want to show it, and it’s not easy for his family either, but this verdict is primarily directed against Republika Srpska and the Serb people as a whole. I came tonight not because I can influence future decisions of Republika Srpska's leadership, nor have I ever wanted to do so, but to offer support to our people in Republika Srpska, to say that Serbia stands with them, without ever threatening anyone," Vucic said.
He argued that he had always emphasized the importance of respecting BiH’s integrity and sovereignty, but that "everything has changed today."

"I came to Dodik with only two requests. I conveyed to him the conclusions of our National Security Council, and we will also hold a parliamentary session within the next month, where the President of Republika Srpska will be invited to speak. My first request is for President Dodik and the leadership of Republika Srpska to once again invite all government representatives and political actors in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as representatives of the EU, the US, the Russian Federation, and China, to talks. I asked President Dodik to initiate dialogue, to engage in talks, and, no matter how difficult it may be, to show the Serb commitment to peace and resolving problems through dialogue, rather than threats and blackmail. I also asked Dodik, (Drasko) Stanivukovic, and many others tonight for unity and solidarity on key issues," Vucic stated.

He said that “Serbia will always do everything in its power to help preserve peace”.

“I ask President Dodik and our people to engage in dialogue and conversation, but Serbia will always stand by Republika Srpska, by its people, supporting the President of Republika Srpska, the institution of the presidency. And in this case, not only am I not ashamed, but I can proudly say that I stand by Milorad Dodik, who, in the end, is 'guilty' of not obeying the High Representative’s decisions. If that was the reason for the verdict and for the destruction of a state, then congratulations to you. Serbia will remain by Republika Srpska’s side. Long live Republika Srpska, long live Serbia," Vucic concluded.