Dodik's pro‑Russia stance: Attending BRICS summit in Kazan

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Milorad Dodik stated that participating in the upcoming BRICS forum in Kazan represents significant recognition for both Republika Srpska and its policies, as reported by RTRS television.

The BRICS group summit (formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa since 2006 as a coalition of countries defining themselves as emerging markets) is set to take place in Kazan. Republika Srpska, a partially autonomous constituent of Bosnia and Herzegovina, will participate in the discussions as an observer.

The president of Republika Srpska is expected to meet with Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, during the summit. He stated that the invitation to the event came directly from the Russian side.

At the summit, Dodik plans to explore the potential involvement of autonomous regions or provinces within the BRICS alliance. In a statement to RTRS television, he mentioned that they will look into the possibility of these regions or provinces becoming alliance members.

Dodik has maintained close relations with Russia for years and often expressed appreciation for the dictator.

In an interview, he expressed his strong appreciation for Russia, referring to it as a friendly nation. He praised President Putin as a peaceful leader and a powerful figure for his country and people, noting that Putin is among the world's most influential leaders.

Milorad Dodik has been on the US sanctions list since 2022. The sanctions were a consequence of his actions aimed at violating the Dayton peace agreement that ended the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina in the 1990s. According to Washington, the politician was also accused of corrupt activities.

Dodik, known for repeatedly questioning Bosnia and Herzegovina's unity, shared his vision for Republika Srpska's future during an interview with Russia Today in early February 2023. He expressed his desire for the country to achieve independence as a separate nation.

In January 2023, the president of Republika Srpska awarded Vladimir Putin the highest honour of Republika Srpska in recognition of his "patriotic stance and love" for this part of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Regarding the war in Ukraine, Dodik remarked that a Russian victory on all fronts would also mean a victory for Republika Srpska. Since the onset of Russia's aggression in Ukraine, Dodik has met with Vladimir Putin five times, with their most recent meeting taking place in June at a forum in St. Petersburg.