Garčević Warns of Potential Instability Amidst US Intelligence Report Concerns

In a recent interview with Free Europe/Radio Liberty’s Albanian Service, Ambassador Vesko Garčević, Professor of the Practice of International Relations at Boston University’s Pardee School of Global Studies, shared insights into the region’s security landscape. The discussion centered on the implications of the recent US intelligence report, particularly concerning the potential secession of Republika Srpska from Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Garčević emphasized the interconnectedness of Bosnia and Herzegovina with the wider Balkan region, cautioning that any instability within Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly if triggered by Republika Srpska’s secession, could catalyze a chain reaction across the region. He highlighted the potential for heightened tensions and escalations in Kosovo under such circumstances.

Furthermore, Garčević speculated on the potential outcomes should President Trump return to the White House. He suggested a departure from the collaborative approach between the US and the EU seen during the Biden administration, potentially leading to the US pursuing its own agenda for Kosovo and Serbia. Garčević pointed to the idea of a territorial swap between Kosovo and Serbia, previously supported by President Trump, as a possible consequence. Such a scenario, if realized, could further destabilize the region and increase the likelihood of Republika Srpska’s separation, exacerbating existing challenges in the Balkans.