Professor Srđan Perišić from East Sarajevo University has stated that the decision of Russian President Vladimir Putin to receive Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik in Moscow is a clear indication of Russia’s commitment to protecting Srpska in all aspects.

Perišić emphasized that Putin’s meeting with Dodik reaffirms Russia’s strategic interest in Republika Srpska and its role as a key ally on the international stage. According to him, this visit demonstrates Moscow’s continued support for the entity’s political and economic stability, as well as its sovereignty within the framework of the Dayton Agreement.

“This meeting is not just symbolic. It sends a strong message that Russia is closely monitoring developments in Bosnia and Herzegovina and that it is prepared to support Srpska against any pressures or attempts to diminish its constitutional position,” Perišić said.

He also highlighted that Putin’s engagement reflects a broader geopolitical strategy, in which Moscow aims to counter external influences that seek to weaken Republika Srpska’s autonomy. “Russia has consistently defended the principles of the Dayton Agreement, and this meeting confirms that it will not allow any unilateral actions that could undermine Srpska’s rights,” Perišić added.

Dodik’s visit to Moscow comes at a time of heightened political tensions in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with ongoing disputes over the legitimacy of the High Representative and the jurisdiction of state-level institutions. Perišić noted that the support of a global power like Russia provides Srpska with a strong position in international diplomacy.

“The fact that President Putin personally welcomed Dodik in Moscow is proof that Republika Srpska is not alone and that it has a reliable partner in Russia,” he concluded.