EU condemns Russian cooperation with Republika Srpska, warns of destabilisation in Western Balkans

The European Union stated it rejects Russia's destabilising activities in the Western Balkans and warned that relations with Moscow cannot continue while President Vladimir Putin’s aggression against Ukraine persists. In response to a query on the ongoing police cooperation between Republika Srpska and Moscow, the European Commission reminded that entities in Bosnia‑Herzegovina may pursue international cooperation within their competencies, but must fully respect the BiH Constitution and decisions of state institutions.

On 23 June, Republika Srpska’s Minister of the Interior Zhelko Budimir signed a memorandum in Moscow with Oleg Baranov, head of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs department for the city of Moscow, who is subject to EU sanctions. The agreement continues a decade‑old partnership that includes information exchange, professional training and joint work against terrorism and other crimes; the memorandum’s text was not published.

The European Parliament adopted a resolution on 17 June condemning the RS authorities’ cooperation with sanctioned Russian officials, describing it as a risk to the security and stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Although Bosnia formally joined EU sanctions against Russia, their implementation faces resistance from RS politicians led by Milorad Dodik.