In a summary of U.S. foreign policy over the past four years under President Joe Biden’s leadership, White House National Security Advisor Jon Finer stated on Wednesday that security in the Western Balkans remains “a major concern for the United States.”
Speaking at the Chatham House, an international institute based in London, Finer discussed various global issues, including the impact of Russia and China in the region and the unresolved conflict between Kosovo and Serbia. He emphasized that there are “two main dividing lines” in the Western Balkans that are particularly concerning to the U.S.
Finer highlighted the situation in Kosovo, a key U.S. ally, stating that it remains “on the knife’s edge.” He reiterated the U.S. position on Kosovo, emphasizing that it should be both sovereign and respectful of the minority communities within it. The U.S. remains committed to Kosovo’s sovereignty while ensuring the protection of its diverse communities.
These are issues that President Biden’s administration has engaged with, often under the radar through careful diplomacy, Finer noted. However, they remain challenges that need to be closely monitored, with the situation continuing to be concerning.
Another U.S. concern in the region is the potential division of Bosnia, where at least one leader, Mr. Dodik, is rhetorically pursuing an agenda that calls for the disintegration of the state. The U.S. strongly opposes this, reaffirming its belief that the best framework for maintaining peace in Bosnia remains the Dayton Agreement.
Finer’s remarks underscore the ongoing U.S. commitment to stability and sovereignty in the Western Balkans, an area critical to European peace and security.
