UK to send military experts to counter Russian influence in Bosnia and Herzegovina

UK to send military experts to counter Russian influence in Bosnia and Herzegovina
June 30, 2022, 12:48 pm

Flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina - Pixabay

Britain said on Thursday (June 30) that it would send military specialists to Bosnia and Herzegovina to counter Russian influence and to “reinforce the NATO Mission and promote stability and security” in the country.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in a statement: “We cannot allow the Western Balkans to become another playground for (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s pernicious pursuits.”

He added: “By fanning the flames of secessionism and sectarianism Russia seeks to reverse the gains of the last three decades in Bosnia and Herzegovina.”

“That is why we are stepping up support to Bosnia and Herzegovina, answering the call from our friends to help protect the peace they so rightfully deserve to enjoy.”

File photo. UK PM Boris Johnson's official Facebbok page

Bosnia and Herzegovina, country situated in the western Balkan Peninsula of Europe.

The larger region of Bosnia occupies the northern and central parts of the country, and Herzegovina occupies the south and southwest.

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Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to members of numerous ethnic groups. The three largest are the Bosniaks, the Serbs, and the Croats.

The three groups share the same South Slav heritage. The major cultural difference between them is that of religious origin or affiliation—a difference that may be explained in part by the legacy of the Ottoman Empire, which allowed autonomous religious communities to coexist under its rule.

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