O'Brien: We will continue to use sanctions against both Dodik and his helpers

(Patria) - James O'Brien, Assistant Secretary of State Antony Blinken for Europe and Eurasia, announced tonight on social media with a message that the US strongly supports the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and multiethnic character of BiH.

"We will continue to use all the tools at our disposal, including sanctions, to defend our interests by holding accountable those who engage in anti-Dayton, corrupt, or anti-democratic activities, including Dodik and his helpers.

These activities only harm the citizens of BiH, including the residents of Republika Srpska, and they must stop. Those involved will be subject to sanctions, as will anyone who materially assists them," O'Brien stated via platform X.

The United States strongly supports BiH’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and multiethnic character. We will continue to use all the tools at our disposal, including sanctions, to defend our interests by holding accountable those who engage in anti-Dayton, corrupt, or…

— Assistant Secretary Jim O'Brien (@StateEUR) August 30, 2024

He emphasized that Ambassador Michael Murphy represents the US Government, and that he and his team in Sarajevo, Banja Luka, and Mostar implement US foreign policy and defend US interests in BiH.

"Our Embassy has explained the risks of sanctions to all concerned, and - as I have said recently - we do the same in countries around the world. All US officials will continue to express these views," O'Brien said.