US Congress Debates Western Balkans Policy and Regional Security

The US House of Representatives Subcommittee on Europe is holding a hearing today. It will discuss US policy and security challenges in the Western Balkans. The hearing starts at 10 AM in Washington. Daniel J. Lawton from the US State Department will testify. Republican Congressman Keith Self chairs the subcommittee.

The hearing will focus on American policy in the Western Balkans. Security issues in the region are also a key topic. Questions about Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) are expected to draw special attention.

Congressman Joe Wilson has criticized Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić. This includes criticism for the funeral of Ratko Mladić, a convicted war criminal.

BiH will also be a major topic. Congressman William Keating might highlight the situation there. He co-authored a letter asking to review the lifting of sanctions on Milorad Dodik. Dodik is the SNSD president. Other officials connected to the Republika Srpska government were also mentioned.

Separately, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee will hold hearings on September 16 and 17. These hearings are for diplomatic appointments. Ronald Johnson is expected to appear. He was nominated by President Donald Trump to be the next US Ambassador to BiH.