A New Leader Takes the Helm in Bosnia's Serb Republic

In a significant political shift, Bosnia's Serb Republic has a new interim president. Ana Trisic Babic, a close ally of former President Milorad Dodik, is now in charge. This change comes after a state court barred Dodik from politics. Trisic Babic will hold the position temporarily until new elections on November 23. The parliament also took steps to undo several separatist laws passed recently. These laws were controversial because they defied decisions made by the international envoy and the constitutional court. Dodik, known for his pro-Russian and nationalist views, had been pushing for the Serb Republic to break away and join Serbia. Despite the court's ruling, he had refused to step down and continued acting as president. Dodik is currently appealing the court's decision. Meanwhile, the U. S. Treasury Department has removed four of his allies from a sanctions list. This move was welcomed by Dodik, who has been trying to get U. S. sanctions against himself lifted. He has been sanctioned by the U. S. , Britain, and several European countries for actions that threaten the peace deal that ended Bosnia's war in the 1990s. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions in Bosnia. Dodik's separatist policies have raised concerns about the stability of the region. The appointment of Trisic Babic and the annulment of separatist laws are steps towards addressing these issues. However, the political landscape remains complex and uncertain.