TIRANA, May 29 – Two United States congress members visited the Western Balkans last week. The trip signaled renewed United States commitment to peace and stability in the region. Ivana Stradner from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies in Washington made this assessment. She referred to Republican congressman Keith Self and Democratic congressman Suhas Subramanyam. They visited Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, the Presheva Valley, and Kosova.
Stradner said Kosova and Bosnia and Herzegovina remain vulnerable. She pointed to harmful influence and political pressure from Belgrade and Moscow. She spoke to Radio Free Europe. Meanwhile, she cited a recent United States intelligence report. The report described the Western Balkans as a region with heightened political tensions and external influence. It also highlighted Russia’s role in regional destabilization.
In addition, the report said Russia encourages instability between Serbia and Kosova. It also said Russia supports efforts related to Republika Srpska in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Stradner said congressman Self views the Balkans as a core strategic issue. She added that Russia and Serbia exploit regional divisions to weaken Western influence. At the same time, she warned that a reduced United States presence would create a dangerous vacuum. She said Moscow and Belgrade would exploit that vacuum quickly.
Stradner linked regional stability to broader European security. She said United States engagement and deterrence remain essential. However, she also raised concerns about the future of KFOR in Kosova. She warned that any withdrawal would strengthen Russia and Serbia. As a result, she said such a move would weaken regional security.
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