West STL News

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Vice Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, expressed her satisfaction after the House passed the Upholding the Dayton Peace Agreement Through Sanctions Act. She emphasized the importance of the Dayton Accords, stating, “The Dayton Accords are a symbol of American leadership and commitment. If we let them collapse, then we risk seeing violence return to Bosnia. Adversaries like Russia and China would welcome these upheavals and solidify a stronger economic and security foothold."

The legislation, introduced by Rep. Wagner, aims to impose sanctions on individuals who undermine the Dayton Peace Agreement or threaten the stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Rep. Wagner highlighted the significance of the act in addressing issues such as secessionism, corruption, and destabilization, particularly targeting individuals like Milorad Dodik in Bosnia.

In her statement, Rep. Wagner acknowledged the support of her colleagues in passing the bill and urged the Senate to take prompt action. She emphasized the importance of supporting the Bosnian community in the St. Louis region, stating, “I hope the Senate takes swift action so the tens of thousands of Bosnians in the St. Louis region know we have their backs and support a safe, unified, and sovereign Bosnia and Herzegovina."

The Upholding the Dayton Peace Agreement Through Sanctions Act builds on similar legislation previously passed in 2022. Recent actions by the Department of Treasury, sanctioning individuals supporting Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik, align with the objectives of Rep. Wagner's legislation in maintaining the stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The presence of Bosnian refugees in the St. Louis region underscores the importance of ensuring the stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina. With deep connections to their homeland, the Bosnian community in St. Louis remains vigilant about the situation in the Balkan region.