By appointing Ana Trišić Babić as acting president of Republika Srpska, the National Assembly has taken an important step toward preserving the institutional stability and constitutional order of Srpska. The U.S. State Department welcomed the decision — a move that many see as confirmation that Republika Srpska is moving in the right direction, while others find it deeply unsettling.
The State Department issued a statement praising the parliament’s action, describing it as a sign of stability within Bosnia and Herzegovina:
“The United States welcomes the action of the National Assembly of Republika Srpska, which confirms stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This decision will also establish a course for constructive partnership with the U.S., based on mutual interests, economic potential, and shared prosperity,” the statement read.
For Sarajevo’s political circles, used to Washington’s alignment with Bosniak policies and sanctions against Serb representatives, the message came as a shock. Even parts of the opposition in Srpska expressed unease — especially since the appointment was followed by the lifting of U.S. sanctions against four individuals from Republika Srpska.
“Now it’s all about Trump, Trump, Trump… People are putting on caps, singing songs. It’s pure flattery,” commented opposition MP Nebojša Vukanović.
Republika Srpska’s leadership, however, rejects any notion of subservience — framing these developments as part of a strategic effort to strengthen Srpska’s negotiating position.
“This is the last time we are extending our hand to BiH — at the insistence of our international friends,” said President Milorad Dodik. “As President Trump once said, ‘We will not interfere in your internal affairs.’ BiH can function, but only according to the Dayton Agreement.”
While political Sarajevo interprets recent parliamentary sessions as a “victory for Bosnia,” analysts argue that the reality is quite different.
“We’re entering a period of stabilization that began with yesterday’s Assembly sessions,” said Sarajevo-based lawyer Damir Sakić. “Dodik and the SNSD are emerging from this cycle with greater political strength, democratic legitimacy, and momentum that points to a historic result in the 2026 elections.”
Members of the ruling coalition stress that decisions concerning Republika Srpska must remain exclusively in the hands of its citizens.
“We, the people who live here, will not allow anyone from outside to choose our president,” said Srđan Amidžić, BiH Minister of Finance and Treasury.
Meanwhile, Republika Srpska’s growing international presence is reflected in regional developments — notably the upcoming Budapest summit, where Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán will host U.S. and Russian representatives.
“President Dodik already mentioned in Sochi the idea of forming a commission for Balkan affairs, where Hungary would play a mediating role between Washington and Moscow,” noted Željko Budimir, RS Minister of the Interior.
Republika Srpska, officials emphasize, has chosen its course — the path of international visibility, constitutional protection, and the continuity of legitimate state authority.
Source: RTRS
