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US advisors involvement in Republika Srpska

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2026-10-09 16:22 UTC → 2026-10-23 04:15 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Reports have emerged that political advisors James Blair and Chris LaCivita provided electoral advisory services to the government of Republika Srpska and Milorad Dodik’s SNSD party in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The consultants reportedly earned several hundred thousand dollars each for this work through a Washington-based law firm. Analysts suggest their involvement may have focused on election technology and addressing concerns regarding voting devices. New details indicate the Republika Srpska government contracted the lobbying firm Continental Strategy for a monthly fee of $35,000 to facilitate meetings and build relationships. The engagement reportedly focused on election integrity and the use of new voting equipment ahead of local elections. Donald Trump addressed the reports on Truth Social, clarifying that Blair and LaCivita are external consultants rather than official employees and are permitted to serve multiple clients. Trump stated he would investigate their other engagements and promised, “if there is a conflict of interest, I will fire them immediately!” Trump has since distanced himself from the advisors, claiming he was unaware of their travel to the Balkans during a critical period for U.S. midterm elections. Political fallout has continued, with U.S. Republican Senator Thom Tillis describing Republika Srpska as “destabilizing” and calling for the consultants to sever their ties. While Republika Srpska officials, including Željka Cvijanović, have denied allegations of improper foreign influence, U.S. lawmakers and analysts continue to express concern regarding potential hybrid influence operations in the Western Balkans. Following the election, in which the party led by Milorad Dodik secured a victory, LaCivita and Blair reportedly donated their six-figure consulting fees to the Trump presidential library. While the donation has reportedly caused Donald Trump’s previous frustration regarding the assignment to subside, both advisors are expected to remain liable for income taxes on the earnings, which exceeded $100,000 each.

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