During a meeting in Banja Luka tonight, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić expressed his support for the Serbs of Republika Srpska, affirming that Serbia stands beside them without posing a threat to anyone.

“Today is a challenging day, specifically a difficult day for the Serbian people as a whole. We are confused about who should lead and in what manner. A ruling was made today that is meaningless in its proceedings against the President of Republika Srpska, for actions that do not even qualify as a verbal offense,” Vučić stated during a joint press conference with Dodik post-meeting.

The Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina convicted Dodik and imposed a one-year prison sentence along with a six-year prohibition from political activity, citing his disregard for decisions made by Kristijan Šmit. This initial ruling is appealable. Following the verdict, Dodik declared, “As of today, Bosnia and Herzegovina no longer exists as it was envisioned.” Meanwhile, Miloš Lukić, the acting director of the Official Gazette, was acquitted in the same case.

Vučić suggested that the verdict is aimed at undermining both the RS and the Serbian people in general, as reported by RTRS.

He emphasized the necessity for dialogue.

“Currently, the situation is entirely different; everything has altered, both within the Serbian community and amongst all nations, which is not simple to overcome. I shared the insights from our Security Council with Dodik. Furthermore, we will convene our Assembly where we will invite Dodik to address the MPs, and we will consider whether a session of the Security Council is required at the United Nations,” Vučić noted.

He urged all parties to unite.

“When it comes to the advancement of Republika Srpska, unity is more essential than ever. I implore all involved to heed my call. The most crucial factor is to pursue dialogue, even though I anticipated this outcome. My message to the people of Republika Srpska is clear: Serbia shall always support Republika Srpska, its citizens, the President of Republika Srpska, the institution itself, and Milorad Dodik personally,” Vučić affirmed.

Dodik stressed the significance of holding the Serbian Parliament’s session, where Republika Srpska will share its perspectives, according to RTRS.

He extended his gratitude to the Serbian President for his support.

“Serbia is proud of your reaction this evening, a response unlike any from previous Serbian presidents. Your arrival here amid your own challenges means a lot to us. We appreciate Serbia’s role in maintaining peace.”

Dodik remarked on the importance of Serbia as a signatory to the Dayton Agreement.

“We are committed to preserving peace. I urge everyone in Republika Srpska to maintain tranquility and stability. We are not hostile towards anyone, nor do we have plans for conflict. We are prepared for discussions but will not tolerate being overlooked. We are ready to converse with all parties regarding how to make BiH constitutional and sustainable for everyone while protecting our acquired rights,” he said.

He emphasized that peace is paramount.

“Tomorrow, the leadership of Republika Srpska will call us for discussions. We seek nothing; we are not interested in one inch of FBiH nor wish to impose anything upon them. We simply want what the Constitution provides us. If they wish to talk, I am ready to be in Sarajevo tomorrow at 10:00 AM. We are all set for dialogue,” Dodik emphasized.

“We will stand by Republika Srpska, no matter what its decision is”

Before the meeting in Banja Luka, Vučić remarked that today is “a challenging day for the entire Serbian nation.”

“My advisors suggested that it might not be the most advisable moment to visit Banja Luka. I was here just a few days ago celebrating Sretenje, and it would be regrettable not to stand with the Serbian community during these challenging times,” Vučić stated.

Dodik received a final sentence today of one year in prison along with a six-year ban from serving as President of Republika Srpska due to disobeying the decisions of the High Representative. Miloš Lukić, acting director of the Official Gazette of Republika Srpska, was acquitted in the initial proceedings.

“I understand how much injustice can hurt and oppress individuals; I can imagine how difficult this is for Dodik. Today marks an assault on Republika Srpska. They are attempting to demonstrate that they can pass judgment without a court, making decisions devoid of law and justice,” Vučić continued, as reported by RTRS.

He assured that regardless of the RS’s choice, Serbia and he personally will stand by that Bosnian and Herzegovina entity.

“The citizens of Serbia and Republika Srpska are one and the same. I have great affection for Republika Srpska. Long live Republika Srpska, long live Serbia,” voiced Vučić.

Dodik expressed that they are encouraged by President Vučić’s visit and reiterated that preserving the Constitution is of utmost importance.

“We will safeguard our constitutional rights. Support from Serbia is vital for us,” said Dodik, as reported by RTRS.

He acknowledged Serbia is facing challenges but believes Vučić appreciates the support from Republika Srpska.

“He is someone we trust; we in Srpska desire a strong Serbia.”

Dodik underscored the critical need to revert to the Constitution of BiH while rejecting all reforms put forth.

“We are not a rebellious faction; we merely seek the constitutional rights we were granted, and we do not have faith in your reforms—retract them,” he stated.

He assured that efforts will be made to ensure peace is not jeopardized.

“Let us remain calm and united around our principles; there is no necessity for escalation, only for action, which is essential in response to attempts to reduce Republika Srpska to a mere shell,” he asserted.

“Shameful verdict aimed at the destruction of RS”

This evening, Vučić labeled the ruling against Dodik as shameful, illegal, and anti-democratic, intended to dismantle the RS and weaken the position of the Serbian people.

“Just days ago, we celebrated Sretenje together and looked forward to our holiday with joy. Today, however, the circumstances are starkly different and significantly more challenging, yet our duty as a nation is to support Republika Srpska. Therefore, in this moment of hardship, we are coming to Banja Luka to offer our encouragement, aiming for decisions that foster peace and reduce tensions,” Vučić shared in a video post on Instagram while en route to Banja Luka.

“Without doubt, as a people, we will succeed in preserving our living space, defending both Republika Srpska and its president, while also allowing Serbia to progress,” proclaimed the Serbian president at the time.

Dodik’s office earlier announced that Vučić is visiting today as part of working meetings with the President of Republika Srpska.

As stated, the two leaders will convene at the Palace of the Republic, followed by a press conference.

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