Western Balkans Security & U.S. Policy Hearing — September 15, 2026

06:25The Subcommittee on Europe will come to order. The purpose of this hearing is to review U.S. policy in the Western Balkans, focusing on the ongoing instability, primarily driven by ethnic and political tensions in Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, and between Serbia and Kosovo.

06:57I now recognize myself for an opening statement. Last December, this committee held a hearing to promote balance in the Balkans. It remains my assessment that the instability in the Western Balkans is the preeminent threat to U.S. national security interests in a post-Ukraine war in Europe.

07:19and I will add along with the possibility of the kinetic in the Baltic region in the north In May of this year I led a congressional delegation to obtain first knowledge of ongoing challenges in the Western Balkans The core objective of our visit was to engage in dialogue and receive perspective from NGOs, government officials, opposition leaders, civic leaders, civilians, students, and military in order to garner ground truth.

07:50My message during those engagements was consistent. Preserving stability in the region is essential for future success. Yet as it stands today, hybrid warfare is real. Hatred continues. Discrimination is real. Stasis is real. Not preparing for chaos in the Balkans in a post-Ukraine-Russia war could prove catastrophic.

08:14Projecting strength will be essential to counterbalancing that chaos and preserving regional security. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, for example, the October 4th elections represent an opportunity to move forward in reconciling differences and achieving tangible progress for its citizens.

08:33Unfortunately, ethnic divisions between Bosniaks, Serbs, and Croats continue apace. While real policy discussions over state land reform and energy policy should be the focus, historic divisions and grievances persist today. The open question on the role and responsibilities of the Office of High Representative continues to split opinions in the country.

09:00The High Representative position was not intended to be permanent, yet here we are 30 years on. Instead, the objective of the High Representative was to prepare the government of Bosnia and Herzegovina to take full responsibility for its own affairs without the need of international supervision or governance.

09:19my visit to Belgrade. I reiterated the need for Serbia to be a force for stability in the region. Unfortunately, rather than looking toward the future, the Serbian government continues to embrace a narrative of victimization rooted in the past.

09:29Such sentiments are demonstrated through its refusal to recognize Kosovo's independence and giving state honors to convicted war criminals, as we saw last week during the funeral of Hladko Mladovic. The architect of the Srebrenica genocide where more than 8,000 Bosniak men and boys were murdered.

09:54Additionally, investigating the issue of minority rights of ethnic Albanians in southern Serbia especially in the Prasheva Valley, was a priority during our visit. What became clear to me is that no matter where ethnic tensions and discrimination exist, the protection in respect of minority rights across the region continue to be essential in ensuring stability.

10:17This also extends to allowing the legal movement of people across borders, including Serbia, Kosovo, and North Macedonia. The blocking and gamesmanship over key border crossings is unnecessary and antagonistic. Opening the blocked highway between the ethnic Albanian area of Serbia and North Macedonia would cut a 30-kilometer commute for ethnic Albanians to just 2.5 kilometers, and that's just one example.

10:44In Kosovo, recent elections have been inconclusive in providing a clear governing coalition. As the parliament works to elect a new president, I call on all political leaders to work together in finding common ground.

10:57The challenges facing Kosovo domestically and internationally require that a government be formed, particularly a formally elected president. During my visit, I also conducted meetings with NATO military leadership for the Kosovo Force, also known as KFOR.

11:13While NATO membership for Kosovo is the most important ingredient for Kosovo's security, This long-standing mission is the present bulwark for peace between Kosovo and Serbia. Both governments recognize it as the key to avoid kinetic conflict.

11:30Consequently, the considered withdrawal of U.S. troops is the most immediate threat to peace between the two countries. This is a prime example of U.S. presence making a difference. As chairman of the Subcommittee on Europe, I will continue advocating for the reality on the ground.

11:49is an independent, democratic, and strategic partner of the United States. Roughly 100 countries recognize the independence of Kosovo, with estimates as high as 121. It is time for the non-recognizing nations, especially with the four remaining NATO members – Greece, Romania, Slovakia, and Spain – to embrace the fact that Kosovo is here to stay.

12:06The refusal of these four countries is preventing Kosovo's integration into NATO, which I believe is the biggest obstacle to stability in the Western Balkans. I sponsored House Resolution 1246 which expresses the sense of the House of Representatives in support of Kosovo integration into NATO Just to comment on constitutional courts across the region they continue to show political bias.

12:36And tangentially, the Tribunal in The Hague tomorrow, I think, hopefully will not show the same. I want to applaud the Trump administration's focus on the Western Balkans. That includes efforts to increase American energy exports to the region, as well as the nominations of ambassadors for Montenegro, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and a confirmed ambassador for Albania.

12:58I urge the administration to put forward nominations for Kosovo and North Macedonia now. It is critically important that President Trump has his personal representatives in each of these countries in order to achieve our objectives.

13:10And the ambassador is a common issue I hear both in my office and my travels through the region. In conclusion, the United States should continue to play a pivotal role in ensuring safety, security and stability in the Balkans, specifically U.S. participation in KFOR and the appointment of ambassadors.

13:32In both BH and Kosovo, the conflicts were frozen, not settled. But the envisioned new order was never recognized, never realized, and time now largely stands still as we move toward the future. I look forward to the testimony of today's witness.

13:52We hope that you can provide the State Department's current assessment and policies toward the Western Balkans. The Chair now recognizes the ranking member from Massachusetts, Mr. Keating, for an opening statement.

14:03Thank you, Mr. Chair. I strongly believe in pursuing regional stability in the Western Balkans. Three decades after such a devastating conflict, a secure, sovereign, and economically sound Western Balkans is critical for the people of the region and for the United States.

14:18Sadly while the Trump administration publicly advocates for regional stability, political cronies, outside actors, and friends of the Presidents are using their connections to the White House to pursue corrupt deals in the Western Balkans, enriching themselves in undermining US security.

14:36Two prominent examples relate to the President's son-in-law Jared Kushner, as as President Trump designated Kushner to negotiate globally with the countries including Russia and Ukraine. He's pursued billion-dollar real estate deals, first in Serbia, now in Albania.

14:52If this type of self took place in any foreign country any common American official would call it out I hope my Republican colleagues join with me because this morning I released a groundbreaking report entitled Pay for Play in the Balkans how the Trump administration's Bosnia policy enriches the president's personal allies and shortchanges the American people.

15:12I want to thank Ranking Member Meeks and the other Democrats in the subcommittee for signing on to this report. This report recounts the administration's corrupt decisions, in particular, removing long-standing sanctions on Bosnian Serb secessionist leader, Milorad Dodic.

15:32And second, facilitating the concessions for Bosnia's southern interconnection gas pipeline to accompany with no regional or energy sector experience at all. Only recently, this was established by Trump's affiliates, Jesse Bunnell, and Joseph Flynn, the brother of former National Security Advisor and Trump ally Michael Flynn.

15:56The report concludes that the Trump administration's October 2025 decision to delist Milrod Dodik didn't alter his behavior. Instead, the delisting emboldened him and enabled his lobbyists, Rod Volokovic and the same Michael Flynn, both of whom received pardons from President Trump for their crimes, to enrich themselves.

16:20In December 2025, Congress passed the Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity Act, which I led, and which requires the Trump administration to impose sanctions on any individual threatening peace and stability in the Western Balkans.

16:35Dodek is blatantly violating this legislation, and the Trump administration must immediately reimpose sanctions on him. The report I've released today also finds that the Trump administration used its geopolitical influence to pressure Bosnia officials to pass special legislation to guarantee that AAFS Infrastructure and Energy LLC, a company owned by former Trump lawyer Jesse Benel and the aforementioned Joseph Flynn, is the only company eligible to receive the contract for the Southern Interconnection Gas Pipeline.

17:14This report details how on November 20th, 2025, the US Embassy in Sarajevo first posted publicly about the potential for a US company to run the pipeline And just four days later four days Benal and Flynn established their company AAFS in the United States Five months later after numerous consultations with the State Department AAFS was written into Bosnian legislation as the only company eligible to receive the contract for the pipeline.

17:48I believe this occurred only because of Benal and Flynn's personal connections to the President since they have no experience whatsoever in operating an LNG pipeline and no experience in the Western Balkans. They have no business receiving this sole source designation and the Southern Interconnection Gas Pipeline is too important to Bosnians, to the region and to the U.S. interest to allow this graph to continue.

18:14While Americans strong struggle financially, Joseph Flynn and Jesse Benel are lined up to get a billion-dollar contract for a pipeline in Bosnia. Rod Bogovic and Michael Flynn, the lobbyists for Dodik and political allies of the presidents, have profited hundreds of thousands of dollars because of their connections with the administration.

18:40So as we address many important issues in the Western Balkans, from a continued U.S. role in NATO's K4 to the importance of supporting EU and NATO ascension for Western Balkan countries. I'm also hopeful that our witnesses can shed some light on these two decisions in Bosnia that clearly run counter to our interests.

18:57Thank you and I yield back.

19:05Other members of the committee are reminded that opening statements may be submitted for the record. We are pleased to have Deputy Assistant Secretary Daniel Lawton from the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs at the U.S.

19:16Department of State before us today. Sir, your full statement will be made part of the record. And I'll ask you to keep your spoken remarks to five minutes in order to allow time for member questions, and now recognize Mr. Lawton for an opening statement.

19:32Chairman Self, Ranking Member Keating, distinguished subcommittee members and members of your teams, thank you for this opportunity to testify today on U.S. policy in the Western Balkans. We appreciate congressional attention and travel to the region, including Mr. Chairman, your travel to the Western Balkans in May.

19:53The United States seeks a stable, peaceful and prosperous Western Balkans. that contributes to regional and global security. We are pursuing positive relations with actors in the region to maintain stability, expand economic cooperation, and counter threats that directly affect the United States.

20:16At the 30th anniversary commemoration of the Dayton Peace Agreement, Deputy Secretary of State Landau made clear that the era of externally imposed nation building is over. Instead, we urge local leaders to forge local solutions to local problems.

20:34We urge leaders across the region to move beyond re-litigating past disputes and to focus on pragmatic initiatives that move their countries forward. I want to clarify, this does not mean U.S. disengagement. We remain active in pursuing constructive outcomes that advance the interests of the American people, while empowering local actors to drive their own solutions.

20:58And we remain ready to work with those prepared to move into the future. U.S. policy rests on three pillars. The first is maintaining stability. This is a prerequisite for all our objectives. Second, we are advancing U.S. economic and commercial interests through private sector-led growth and investment climates that welcome American business.

21:21These two pillars, stability and prosperity, are mutually reinforcing. Third, we are working with our partners in the region to counter threats, including from Balkan criminal organizations that directly cooperate with Western Hemisphere cartels that threaten the United States.

21:40We pursue these objectives through sustained high-level engagement and the use of all the tools at our disposal, including those enacted by Congress. We also expect European partners to carry a greater share of the region's security burden.

21:57For our Western Balkan NATO allies, this includes modernizing their militaries and meeting NATO defense spending commitments and their capability commitments, NATO 3.0. The United States remains committed to Bosnia and Herzegovina's sovereignty and territorial integrity and to the stability brought by the Dayton Agreement.

22:18Last year, U.S. diplomacy resolved a long-running crisis, preserving the country legal cohesion and constitutional order while securing the withdrawal of the Republika Srpska most anti legislation Next month the people of Bosnia will cast their ballots in an important election, and we stand ready to work with the new leadership on shared interests.

22:43Similarly, the United States remains committed to Kosovo's independence and territorial integrity. We enjoy a broad collaborative agenda with Kosovo. Unfortunately, that agenda has been hindered by repeated elections, a prolonged caretaker government, and the delayed formation of needed institutions.

23:02And we are urging Kosovo's leaders to bring this process to conclusion in accordance with its constitution and court rulings. The NATO-led Kosovo force, or KFOR, yes, it remains critical to maintaining safe and secure environment in Kosovo.

23:17and it is supported by U.S. force contributions. In Serbia, we are advocating for the United States as the partner of choice to counter adversarial influence. In July, we hosted the first-ever U.S.-Serbia Strategic Dialogue to advance energy, defense, security, and commercial cooperation.

23:38Engagement with this pivotal country in the regional balance will remain critical to safeguarding U.S. interests. Normalization of relations between and the maintenance of peace between Serbia and Kosovo is essential to regional stability. Significant progress has occurred since the 2020 Washington Agreement which was brokered by our president during the first term.

24:00Nevertheless the EU facilitated dialogue has stalled because of insufficient will on both sides and we urge Belgrade and Pristina to avoid provocations to uphold their commitments and resume talks without preconditions. Let me say quickly, we're also working closely with our NATO allies, Albania, Montenegro, and North Macedonia on our shared security goals as well as to counter transnational criminal organizations.

24:28Summing up, our engagements in the Western Balkans are tied to achievable objectives and measurable results. Our focus is on supporting pragmatic, locally driven solutions that bolster stability, expanding commercial and security cooperation and advancing the interests of the American people.

24:47Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I look forward to your questions.

24:50Thank you Mr Lawton I now recognize myself for five minutes of questioning I want to start with Serbia We always focus on the Russian influence in Serbia However more than half of the Chinese investment in this entire region goes into Serbia So what is your assessment?

25:15What is the U.S. policy? You focused on Serbia in your comments. How are we counteracting that huge investment into Serbia? I believe that China's interest is to continuing the instability in the region, and I certainly think these investments lead to that conclusion.

25:37Sir.

25:38Mr. Chairman, thank you for that important question. What I can assure you is that the United States continues to work with Serbia and all our allies in Western Balkans to ensure that they pursue investments that don't allow geopolitical rivals, particularly China, to take ownership over critical infrastructure.

25:57In the case of Serbia, we are concerned that their investments in defense articles coming from China, particularly air defense, the only European country to buy from China air defense, that that could jeopardize our ability to work closely and promote defense cooperation with Serbia.

26:16We want to, as I said in my opening remarks, to be the partner of choice, so we continue our active commercial and economic diplomacy to promote U.S. business in the region.

26:25I would ask you and I will submit this in writing, what can we do to, what can Congress do to counteract the Chinese investment in Serbia? I'd like to move to Kosovo and NATO because I believe that is the most important element of stability in this region is Kosovo's ascension to NATO, second only in immediacy to the KFOR issue.

26:55But we have four NATO members, Greece, Romania, Slovakia, and Spain, as you know, that are non-recognizers. How is the Trump administration working with the non-recognizers, realizing that this is a key point of stability in this entire region?

27:14Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for that question. It is an important one as well. The United States supports the international recognition of Kosovo. We continue those conversations including with NATO allies that are nonrecognizers I also want to say that in terms of making the case a return to the normalization dialogue the EU dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia would be would be useful in in in in in in in our advocacy for for recognition.

27:43And we do urge political leaders on both sides to return to those talks without preconditions.

27:54Again, I will put it in writing, but after we get through this next election season in the region, I think we ought to consider how we move that process forward. KFOR, I have time for one more question.

28:14I can't tell you how important KFOR is both to the Serbian government and to the Kosovo government. both of them for different reasons, of course, consider KFOR and not just KFOR, but the U.S. presence in KFOR absolutely essential.

28:30Can you address the U.S. policy, not the Department of War planning, but the U.S. policy from the State Department in terms of KFOR?

28:40Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I agree with you. KFOR is an important force for stability in the region. I will just share that the size and scope of KFOR is determined by NATO's North Atlantic Council.

28:55It's determined at 32. We do support a force size that's needed to accomplish KFOR's, its goals as conditions permit on the ground. And as we look at U.S. force contribution, we do look at U.S. policy priorities, mission needs, and partner capability.

29:14but the United States is providing a significant and important contribution to KFOR right now.

29:21Yes, they are, and I would ask you for State Department support, because if we move this from a requirement in the Pentagon to a requirement in the European command, it will show decreased emphasis on the U.S. participation in KFOR.

29:37So I would ask for your help if that does come about, because this needs to be a U.S. policy priority supported by the State Department. With that, I yield the remainder of my time, and I now recognize Ranking Member Keating for five minutes.

29:54Thank you, Mr. Chairman. For the record, I want to submit the report I issued this morning to the committee. Without objection. Thank you. I want to begin with Dodik's recent behavior. In February of this year, Dodik described Dayton as unsalvageable and said the high representative had no legitimacy.

30:14Later in February, he referred to Bosniak says enemies and he used Islamophobic slurs in the process. In May of this year, the RS National Assembly passed legislation calling for closure of the Office of the High Representative in May.

30:36Also, Dodik took two trips to Moscow where he echoed Russian talking points. Do you believe that this behavior is consistent with the Dayton Peace Accord?

30:51Well, thank you, Ranking Member Keating. What I want to assure you is that the United States supports the peace and stability that the Dayton Peace Accord has afforded us all. And we oppose rhetoric for political gain, and we're urging de-escalation.

31:09So thank you for sharing.

31:10So would you urge reinstatement of those sanctions on him because he's just continued to do what he did before, and the purpose of sanctions is to alter behavior?

31:20Thank you, Ranking Member Keating, for that question. I think it's a separate question whether sanctions should be applied. I will say that we are focused on actions as opposed to rhetoric. I also would just note here that right now, Mr. Dodek has stepped down from office.

31:38He holds no political office at this time, and he's not running for political office.

31:42But he continues this rhetoric to this time. And this Congress passed the Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity Act, which calls for sanctioning of individuals doing just what he is doing. So I don't think the issues, as you mentioned, are different.

31:58I think they're connected, obviously, and would hope that the department does echo calls to reinstate those sanctions. They mean nothing if they're taken away and then he continues the very same behavior he did before.

32:13I just want to move also to the issue that I addressed in my opening remarks about the gas pipeline that's being built. The embassy itself tweeted publicly about its hope that a U company would win the contract You in your opening remarks said the administration policy is for local solutions to local problems So after initially just advocating, which I agree with, for a southern interconnection gas pipeline, then the embassy changed and said there should be a U.S. company that's involved.

32:49And just four days later, that company was formed by Joseph Flynn and Jesse Benal. And they have no experience whatsoever in the region, no experience with a pipeline. And they're written into the contract.

33:05How do you explain the embassy's change and the difference from your opening statements, that these should be local problems? And this is obviously interjecting US politics and US into this important project? How do you explain that change?

33:21And how do you explain the advocating of a company with no experience that was just formed four days after that pronouncement by the embassy?

33:31Chairman Keating, I really appreciate the question and the chance to clarify. I also appreciate in your opening statement that you appreciate the strategic significance of the Southern interconnection, which would provide for US energy abundance to the region in a way that could increase energy security for Bosnia and Herzegovina.

33:52The United States, this this project has existed on the books for approximately a decade. It was in 2024 that the Federation government decided to move forward with the project with legislation. The

34:10I sincerely apologize for interrupting, but I've got less than a minute. I want to cut to this issue directly. I mean, are you aware of any discussions along these lines of U.S. agencies or quasi-agencies being involved in funding?

34:19Has it been since this sudden change of, you know, it's a U.S. company after you're saying that it's local solutions that we should be fostering, and this four-day miraculous coincidental, I don't think it is, formation of a new company with no experience getting this contract.

34:46Is there also any discussion, and it's something we should have oversight over if there is,

34:52with funding from U entities at all towards this and towards this company Ranking Member Keating what I can say is that over many years the United States has provided technical expertise to the Federation in the design of the Southern Interconnection Project.

35:09I'm not aware of any funding or direct assistance. We did advocate for a US solution. And just to cut to your question about AAFS capabilities, You know, it's a standard globalized you globally used business structure to pool financial technical and operational expertise for large infrastructure projects Ultimately the decision to go with an American solution and with this particular Company to enter into contract negotiations with that company was a sovereign decision of the Federation.

35:34I

35:41Think it demands oversight. I yield back

35:43And now recognize the member from South Carolina. Mr. Wilson

35:48Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman, and indeed, thank you for being here today. I am grateful to have introduced, with ranking member Bill Keating and Chairman Keith Self, legislation promoting fair and free elections in Serbia.

36:02We actually have a support letter from 14 different Serbian civil society organizations supporting free elections in Serbia. I ask the animus' consent this be included in the record.

36:15Without objections?

36:16Additionally, I'm very grateful that tomorrow there will be a briefing on the Serbia's upcoming elections at 9.30 in the morning. Everyone is invited to room 210, Cannon House Office Building. And it's not to take sides in the election, but to promote fair and free elections.

36:34And I indeed ask that this also be included in the record.

36:38Without objection?

36:39There are legitimate concerns that the October 25th election in Serbia will not be free and fair. There are indications that Vucic's security state interest with assistance from war criminal Putin are working to rig the election, such as fake identities, fake accounts, consolidating media under state control.

36:59The Trump administration approach to Serbia via of the strategic dialogue is very important. How can we effectively communicate to the Vistis regime that smothering freedom of speech and assembly and attempting to rig the election will strain U.S.-Serbian relations?

37:18Well, thank you, Representative Wilson, for that important question. We are watching carefully the preparation for Serbia elections With respect to the U strategic dialogue this was the first ever It was as I mentioned in my opening statement an important vehicle to advance our security cooperation, our economic cooperation, and even our people-to-people ties.

37:37The effort here is to invest in a relationship that for too long was marked by isolation and a lack of communication. We would like to make Serbia, we would like to make the United States the partner of choice in Serbia.

37:57I appreciate the partner of choice message, but indeed, I was an election observer of the first free elections in Bulgaria with the International Republican Institute and National Democrat Institute. And so over and over again, we can have a role monitoring and promoting fair and free elections.

38:11Additionally, it's been reported that corruption, organized crime and election integrity in Albania is being affected by the Eddie Rama government, in fact, promoting the creation of a narco-trafficking cabal. It's been over the years, the United States has actually been very successful with anti-crime organized drug trafficking authorities to address the issue.

38:39What is the administration doing in response to the Albanian narco-trafficking?

38:44Representative Wilson, thank you as well for that important question. I can assure you that the United States continues to work with the Albanian government to counter transnational criminal organizations that operate from there. These organizations have international links with cartels here in the Western Hemisphere.

39:04In particular, we found that the special structure for combating corruption in organized crime has been relatively effective in addressing some of the issues that you raised.

39:14It's exciting to me to see the most slavish communist country during the Cold War now is free. And so we want Albania to succeed. With that in mind, too, as you talk about partner of choice, it needs to be by actions, not words.

39:30And indeed, Serbia now has the largest oil company, NIS, being owned by war criminal Putin. We have Serbia purchases from war criminal Putin its weapons systems. We have Chinese Communist Party tech company Huawei supports camera surveillance in Serbia's three largest cities.

39:49Serbia purchased Chinese radar and air defense systems. Incredibly, Serbia sent a delegation to the funeral of dictator Khomeini in Tehran alongside of Russia and China. These are actions that do not show an effort to be part of Western civilization, but they show subservience to World Command on Putin.

40:07And so how is this being addressed?

40:13Well, thank you, Representative Wilson. I can assure you that the United States continues to advocate heavily for U.S. business and U.S. solutions. On the positive side, what I'd like to note is that this year, for the first time in its history, Serbia held a joint

40:28military exercise with NATO. Well, and I need to let you know they also had a joint military exercise with the Chinese People's Liberation Army. And so, hey, this is so serious. And many of us, Congressman Self and myself, are concerned about diesel prices and having Serbia's oil company owned by war criminal Putin affects diesel prices in Texas and South Carolina, even Massachusetts.

40:55Thank you very much.

40:57If I may, just quickly, on the NIS, you mentioned the oil refinery that's Russian-owned. We are working to eliminate Russian control and ownership of NIS.

41:08They're actually increasing percentage of ownership. Thank you.

41:11Now recognize the member from California, Mr. Costa.

41:14Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'm still trying to figure out what the administration's real policy is in the Balkans, because it seems like a host of contradictions. maybe you can make that clear, but you just commented on this Russian involvement with this oil refinery.

41:31I mean, this really begs the question. The president, in the last 24 hours, urged the Ukrainians to lay off of the Russian refineries because of the increased cost of of diesel. It's absurd. It's an absurd request.

41:48Whose side is he on? I mean, I was in Ukraine on Friday and saw multiple bombing activities taking place. Malls, gas stations, the train in which our former CIA director was in front of him was attacked along with the former prime from the UK, Boris Johnson.

42:17Whose side are we on? This is about good and evil. And you're involved in somehow condoning this involvement or ownership of this refinery when these brave Ukrainian people are fighting for their sovereignty and their democracy It makes no sense What has the department done to implement the Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity Act, including the anti-corruption initiatives and technical assistance and sanctions and government oversight?

42:45How is this administration with the Western countries supporting their EU membership aspirations that further our interests, U.S. interests in the region, expanding opportunities for our businesses in line with the act.

43:06Thank you, Representative Costa. Let me just reassure that when it comes to the Russian-owned oil refinery in Serbia, the United States sanctioned that entity in 2025. Right now, I can share that there's a Hungarian oil company that's in negotiations to purchase that and remove Russian control from it.

43:26And we're looking at another sanctions bill, potentially. And frankly, I think the president has more authority to issue sanctions in this instance. But go ahead and answer the question.

43:35Sure. And with respect to sanctions, I'll be the first to say we retain sanctioned authorities. And we will act if stability is threatened or necessary to secure U.S. interests. The United States-

43:50Do you believe you have sufficient authority now?

43:52I believe Congress has given that sufficient authority, and we continuously review actions that may warrant sanction. The authority you have given us has also, I think, served as a deterrent effect from destabilizing actions in the region.

44:06And we'll continue. I want to assure we'll continue to engage Congress as we implement relevant statutory requirements of the NDAA.

44:14Does the administration support membership of the Western Balkan countries and the EU?

44:21Thank you, Representative Costa, for that question. With respect to the European Union, of course, we're not a member. We believe it's a sovereign decision for the countries of Western Balkans to make in coordination with the European Union.

44:35Well, certainly we can be helpful in that process. I mean, we, last I checked, still had a serious participation in NATO, and certainly by way of that, our EU allies, right?

44:50Well, again, we're not a member of the European Union.

44:53No, I know we're not a member.

44:54You don have to remind me of that fact So right now the United States supports the reform process that creates a better business investment climate because that has the advantageous effect of giving the United States the opportunity to help generate prosperity in the region.

45:17So could you summarize for me what the overall strategy is when it comes to the Balkans and in our attempt to maintain our influence in light of the ongoing activities by both Russia and China?

45:33Absolutely, Representative Costa. Our strategy is threefold. It's to promote stability in the region, it's to advance economic cooperation in the region, and it's to counter transnational threats. And this is consistent with our overall mandate given to us by Secretary of State Rubio to make the United States safer, more secure, and more prosperous.

45:55Well, those are all great sound bites, but what is your biggest challenge in dealing with those folks that has had a long history, obviously, going back to Yugoslavia and Tito? But the fact is that the efforts of Russia and China still are, one could argue, that in many ways they're making far more progress than we are.

46:19Thank you for that question, Representative Costa. What I can tell you is that the United States continues to work with all those countries of the Western Balkans to try to ensure that we are the partner of choice.

46:31With respect to unsafe investments, we're promoting investment screening. We also promote procurement procedures that would eliminate unsecure vendors from geopolitical rivals. So we're engaged every day, I can assure you. Our teams are engaged every day to advance U.S. interests, to advance the interests of the U.S.

46:50American people and in those countries.

46:55Well, I'm not so sure I share that view of success, but more to be continued. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.

47:01Now I recognize the member from California, Ms. Kim.

47:04Thank you, Chairman. Thank you for being here. I know Chairman Self mentioned China's investment in Serbia earlier, so let me pick up on that. Serbia's ties with China have expanded in recent years. And Serbian President Vucic said, we have very good cooperation between our countries and we want to bring it to a higher level if possible Well notably Serbia importation of concerning levels of weapons from China ranging from long air ballistic missiles to advanced surface missiles Along with this, participation in joint military drills with China represents unprecedented behavior for an EU candidate nation.

47:50Mr. Lawton, given these concerning developments, how is the State Department addressing the risk of Serbia's military alignment with Beijing to US security interests and stability in the Western Balkans?

48:05Representative Kim, you raised some very important issues and we share your concerns about Serbia's engagement, especially defense cooperation with China. As you mentioned, their purchase of air defense equipment, They are the only European country to buy such equipment in Europe.

48:23What are we doing? The United States continues to engage with Serbia at a high level to make us the partner of choice. And as I mentioned earlier, the United States lauds the fact that-

48:34Can you talk about some specific steps that United States is taking to address that security risk with Belgrade and our European allies? I know we're taking steps and it is important what you're saying.

48:48But again, I think we are asking for some specifics.

48:52Yeah. The United States supported the NATO exercise in Serbia. I will also mention that the Ohio National Guard celebrating 20 years of state partnership program is also a vector for exercising and promoting U.S. influence in Serbia in terms of security cooperation.

49:13In July, Secretary Rubio and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mark Juric led the first U.S.-Serbia strategic dialogue here in Washington, D.C. The initiative represents a wide range of areas of cooperation in energy, defense, and technology.

49:26Can you explain the long-term objectives that is associated with that effort and where there is potential roadblocks for future cooperation, including Serbia's extensive relationship with Russia and China. Please be as specific as possible.

49:47Sure. Well, Representative Kim, I can tell you that the first ever U.S.-Serbia strategic dialogue advanced energy cooperation between our two countries, including moving forward on important hydropower project. It also expanded a Fulbright cooperation between our two countries with Serbia contributing more to that.

50:07In addition, Serbia plans to open two new consulates in the United States. So we are broadening that that that bilateral relationship between our two countries. As you correctly point out, military cooperation with China poses risks, poses risks to our ability to foster defense cooperation with Serbia, it poses risks to interoperability.

50:27How do you plan on addressing those roadblocks and the challenges you are mentioning?

50:33Representative Kim, we plan to engage in vigorous diplomacy, and we continue to do that both here in Washington and through our embassy.

50:43Well, that's all I have for you. I'll yield back. Thank you.

50:47Thank you. I now recognize the member from Nevada, Ms. Titus.

50:52Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'd just like to take a minute to talk about what happened last month when Ratko Milodic passed away. He was a war criminal known as the Butcher of Bosnia, and he died in The Hague, where he'd been serving a prison sentence after he was convicted by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia of crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide.

51:22He played a leading role in the massacre where approximately 8,000 Bosniak men and boys were killed. I ask unanimous consent, Mr. Chairman, to enter a letter into the record from Bosnia and Herzegovina's foreign minister detailing his horrors and the government's stance on circumstances surrounding the transfer of his body back to Serbia.

51:47Without objection.

51:48One might think that Milotic's death would have been a sober moment of reflection for the Serbian government, but instead it's been just the opposite. Serbia chose to treat Milotic like a national hero. His coffin was flown on a government plane from the Netherlands back to Serbia.

52:06He was carried off the plane by soldiers. Thousands of people came out to honor him. His casket featured parts of his uniform and medals he had worn when he was conducting the genocide. and the head of the Serbian Orthodox Church says, we know that his name will remain deeply etched in the memory and prayers of the people who feel and nurture a deep sense of gratitude towards him Now this shouldn come as a surprise to us because Alexander Vucic is a right wing nationalist who made genocidal comments himself For example, he said, for every Serb killed, we will kill 100 Muslims.

52:47So obviously this kind of ultra nationalist fervor is good for politics for him and his party back home. So I would ask you, Mr. Lawton, thus far the State Department, unlike the EU, has remained quiet about this whole episode.

53:03Do you think the Serbian government glorified a glorification of a convicted war criminal and masterminded one of the worst genocides in Europe since World War II is appropriate behavior?

53:16Representative Titus, let me go on the record for you right here. Ratko Miladich, as you rightly pointed out, he served a life sentence, died in jail, he was convicted for genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes.

53:31I want to assure you that we recognize the Shrebrenic genocide, we remember the victims, and we reject glorification of war criminals. Tragedy and crimes of the 1990s, they shouldn't be turned into political theater.

53:45That's offensive to the memory of the tens of thousands of victims and the millions who live through that period. Regional stability under is I've been undermined for far too long by those who want to relitigate the past for selfish gain rather than work to build a more stable and prosperous future.

54:03Well I appreciate you saying that now and and you have said before about the regional stability I think your own words which you submitted to us is that State Department is ready to work with those prepared to move into the future and has little interest in those who would undermine stability for selfish purposes or who relitigate decades-old grievances.

54:27But that's precisely what Serbia is doing. So if we don't condone that, why aren't we taking some position? Kind of like the EU, they publicly have condemned the glorification and the EUPU enlargement commissioner Marta Kosks canceled her trip because of this.

54:47Does Secretary Rubio plan to do anything to publicly condemn this or say we don't support

54:54it or don approve of it Well Representative Titus we don respond to every international development in public but I can assure you that our diplomatic dialogue remains robust And thanks to your question, I hope I've put the U.S. position clearly on the record.

55:12Well, I do appreciate that. So thank you. I just I wonder if we think this is going to have anything to do with the moving forward of the EU for Serbia. but I guess you don't want to comment on that publicly.

55:26Well, another thing let me ask you about. The Trump administration's kind of corrupt policies in the Balkans are enriching the president's friends, and they're also, I think, undermining national security. In Bosnia, the Trump administration rewarded its lobbyist friends by removing sanctions on Milorad Dodic and advocating for a $1 billion concession to be provided to Trump allies in Albania, where they are protesting.

55:56Jared Kushner is using his connections to with the administration to develop a multi billion dollar luxury resort. In November 2025, the Serbian parliament passed a law paving the way for Jared Kushner to develop a luxury hotel and apartment complex on the site of former Yugoslav army headquarters, which was bombed by NATO in 1999.

56:23And this deal is kind of stalled, but what does the sale of Serbian government build into the Trump family with the stated goals of improving relations with the U.S. say about the president's willingness to engage in this sort of thing?

56:38Members' time has expired. I now recognize Mr. Davidson from Ohio.

56:43Thank you, Mr. Lawton. And thank you, Chairman, for this hearing. Earlier this year, there were reports that the European Union would be withholding certain EU growth plan funds to Serbia due to reforms inside Serbia.

56:55Could you update us on the situation there and your read on the European Union's decision?

57:01Well, thank you, Representative Davidson. Again, just to come back, we're not a member of the European Union, so I don't have deep insight into the EU decision there. But I would refer you to Brussels for why they made that decision.

57:16Yeah, I mean, I'm not really asking why they made their decision. There are certainly implications for the United States policy And while the EU isn really our partner EU we essentially the European Union defense force with NATO So we certainly have a vested interest in the security arrangements there There also reports that Serbian accession into the European Union is being harmed by Serbia's refusal to join EU and Western sanctions against Russia.

57:45Does forcing Serbia to take a side in this conflict advance our interests in the region?

57:54Thank you, Representative Davidson. What I can tell you is that, you know, we have sanctions, you know, on Russia and many of our NATO allies do as well. We would encourage countries to join us in that.

58:07Okay. But is the relationship between Serbia and the European Union undermining the United States relationship with Serbia and, frankly, the broader interest in the Balkans? So, rather than just focusing on Serbia, are there other powers exerting notable influence in the region that are countering America's interests there?

58:25Thank you for the question, Representative

58:30Davis, and I can tell you for there are, and we've as we've discussed here, certainly geopolitical rivals, especially China, also Russia, do pose risks to stability in the Western Balkans. That's why we want positive relations across the whole region with all the countries of the of the Western Balkans to foster the stability that is in all our collective interest.

58:53And so in terms of the European Union, I'll just reiterate, we don't take a position on membership. That's a sovereign decision for the Western Balkan countries to make in consultation and coordination with the European Union.

59:08You mentioned in your opening statement that you're working with partners to counter threats from Balkan transnational criminal organizations that directly cooperate with Western Hemisphere cartels and operate black market activity inside the United States.

59:21Could you help us better understand what is going on here? Which countries are these Balkan organizations primarily connected to, and what are the main areas of cooperation that we should be aware of?

59:32Sure, Representative Davidson. Right now, transnational criminal organizations look for the weakest link where they feel they can generate or gain a foothold and influence. We have active programs to support law enforcement cooperation and to counter narcotics.

59:52These transnational criminal organizations are working across the Western Balkans to essentially not just to gain foothold into Europe, but also to launder money and to affect the U.S. homeland. So that law enforcement cooperation across all the Western Balkan states is really critical to our security.

60:12Yeah, as Chairman for National Security and Illicit Finance and Financial Services, also serving here, you see the intersection a lot of times of our Treasury Department and the State Department. So particularly with respect to cyber scams, could you update us on the collaboration within state with Treasury to really find the people targeting this.

60:33Because what we see inside the United States is state and local governments are overwhelmed. You'll see somebody who's scammed out of ten, twenty-five thousand dollars. It doesn't rise to the level that the FBI or Secret Service will look at.

60:45But the reality is, it's not like some local actor. A lot of times it's not even someone inside the United States. These transnational organizations are robbing our citizens of billions of dollars every year.

60:56So how's that collaboration going?

60:58Representative Davidson, I can assure you that we continue to work with our partners across that region to address these transnational criminal organizations and the threats they pose. I think you're very right to point out that this also bleeds into the area of cybersecurity.

61:15I can assure you that we're also working to try to strengthen the cybersecurity capabilities of these countries.

61:23Thank you, and I yield back.

61:25And now welcome to this subcommittee, a member of the full committee, Mr. Latimer from New York. Sir, you're recognized for five minutes. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.

61:33I appreciate it. Mr. Lawton, just one question for you. NATO's KFOR mission remains vitally important to ensuring peace and stability in Kosovo. What are the Trump administration's plans to support KFOR? What do you assess as the continued military modernization challenges that face Kosovo and how is the U.S. assisting Kosovo in dealing with these efforts?

62:01Representative Latimer, thank you for that important question. I can assure you that as Chairman Self noted, KFOR enjoys great support in the region, both from Kosovo and Serbia. In terms of its mission, its size and scope is determined by NATO's North Atlantic Council.

62:21It's decided among 32 NATO allies. We support we continue to support a size needed to accomplish K4 goals as well as in corresponding to whatever conditions permit As we look and continue to review and optimize U.S. contributions, there's some key factors in play here.

62:44There are U.S. policy priorities, mission needs, and partner capability. But I just want to reassure you that we remain engaged in K4 and our presence is an important

62:53one. We appreciate that. We have great respect for the government and the people of Kosovo. They are striving for democracy in the way that we in this country have tried to establish it as well.

63:03So the support of this administration for that initiative is, we think, an important and well-placed effort. Mr. Chairman, thank you, and I yield back. Thank you. I now recognize the member from Florida, Mr. Fine.

63:18Well, thank you for being here today. I think these are important issues to deal with. And My concerns are largely going to stem around the malign influence of Russia and China in the region because I think we can use what's happening here as a broader analog to the kinds of malign efforts that these adversaries of ours are engaging around the world.

63:36So thank you for being here today. There are media reports that Russia's been using their longstanding presence in Serbia as a forward operating base to support hybrid warfare operations in Europe and intelligence collection.

63:50Can you describe what Russia is doing from the Western Balkans to support their hybrid warfare campaigns and explain how operating from countries like Serbia enhances Russia's hybrid warfare capabilities?

64:02Representative Fein, thank you for the question. What I could say in general is that Serbia is trying to provoke or promote instability in the region. It's a vector for, as you mentioned, negative influence in the region.

64:17And the way that Russia does this, by and large, is by promoting energy dependence on Russian sources. So the United States is engaged in an active work across the region to promote energy abundance in the region.

64:33So that our Western Balkan friends and partners would enjoy greater energy security. We do believe that by promoting the infrastructure, as well as U.S. and more secure energy solutions, that our Western Balkan allies will be more secure and less prone to Russian coercion.

64:54So Russia uses their energy both as a vehicle to control but also as a way to obtain revenues which they using for other malign purposes We certainly see that in Ukraine and in other places.

65:06That is correct. Okay. So I want to – in addition to their traditional relationship with Russia, Serbia has recently forged close ties to China, another one of our adversaries, signing a free trade agreement and deepening security cooperation by procuring advanced Chinese defense systems and participating in joint military drills.

65:23This comes at a time when the U.S. is trying to increase cooperation with Serbia, creating the U.S.-Serbia Strategic Dialogue, which seeks to promote, as you talked about, cooperation in energy, defense, and technology. How does Serbia's increased cooperation with China factor into the long-term objectives of the U.S.-Serbia Strategic Dialogue?

65:40MR.

65:41REPRESENTATIVE FINE, IT DOES FACTOR IN. What I can assure you is that – a little bit of background here. Secretary of State Rubio met with his counterpart, Serbian Foreign Minister Juric, last year. It was the first time that the United States met with a foreign minister at that level since 2007.

66:00And so what the administration is doing is engaging at a more senior level. The policy of isolation was not working. And so this constructive engagement is designed to make sure that the United States becomes the partner of choice.

66:14And so we're investing time, energy, and in promoting U.S. solutions, whether it's in defense, economics, energy, to build a stronger, more constructive relationship with Serbia.

66:26Okay. I want to change focus. These are great answers. I want to talk about the Department's current approach to the longstanding NATO Kosovo Force, or KFOR, that mission, KFOR. Are there any plans for U.S. troop withdrawal or reduction from KFOR?

66:41How does the continued U.S. role in KFOR and the presence of Camp Bonstiel contribute to regional stability in Kosovo and the Western Balkans?

66:48Well, thank you, Representative Fein. I agree with you, KFOR is an important force for stability in the Western Balkans. As I mentioned earlier, the size and scope is determined by NATO's North Atlantic Council.

67:02It's decided at 32 in Brussels. We do support a foresight that's needed to accomplish KFOR's mission as conditions permit. And we continue, as always, to try to optimize any U.S. contributions to international peacekeeping.

67:17We do that weighing U.S. policy priorities, mission needs, and partner capability.

67:22Okay. Last question is what actions do you think need to be taken on the diplomatic front and milestones need to be hit to provide the confidence needed to scale down the U presence Well I think any international peacekeeping force of this nature it depends on its conditions

67:41based. And we'd like to see greater progress in the normalization process between Serbia and Kosovo. We'd like to see that process resume. It may be difficult in the context of ongoing elections in the region, but we'd like to see that process resume because Kosovo talking to Serbia about normalization would improve conditions on the ground.

68:03Well, thank you. Look, this is an important region of the world. There's a lot of challenges. We've got to keep the peace, deal with China, deal with Russia. I certainly appreciate what you and the administration are doing in that regards, and I appreciate your time being here today.

68:15Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I yield back.

68:16Thank you. I appreciate the ranking member allowing us to do a second round with you, Mr. Lawton. And before I recognize myself for five minutes, I want to introduce into the record the statement by Senators Shaheen and Grassley and myself, a statement ahead of the funeral of Radko Mladic, without objection.

68:35Before I get to Bosnia Herzegovina, I just want to make a comment that these things do not go unnoticed in the region when the United States policy starts a strategic dialogue with Serbia at about the same time that we stop a strategic dialogue with Kosovo.

69:01Now, I understand the various reasons for those, but I just want to make the comment that those things do not go unnoticed in the region. So let's turn to BH. in Herzegovina is running out of time.

69:11Frankly, when you take a look at the 5 plus 2 agenda, one of the objectives is entrenchment of the rule of law. You've heard some of the comments that have been made by some of the political leaders in Serbia and Bosnia already.

69:22The rule of law is a hallmark in Western liberal democracies, but it's taken some nations centuries to get there, as we know. When we look at the former high representative, Christian Schmidt, his use of the bond powers and he imposed international governance, we realize now they don't cure local instability.

69:52In some instances, they appear to have destabilized Bosnia-Herzegovina. In my view, the next high-level, high representative must take the position of the ultimate goal of closing that office when appropriate, and when appropriate is probably the operative term here.

70:11And I want to explore with you, given the issues we have with the European organizations, the various European organizations, why would we not want the next high representative to be a U.S. representative.

70:32Thank you, Chairman Self. I don't want to prejudge who the next high representative will be. As you know, Christian Schmidt resigned effective on June 30th. I can tell you as we look forward that the current acting high representative, his deputy, is a senior U.S. diplomat, Luke Krishok.

70:54And I can assure you as well that acting High Representative Krishok enjoys the necessary authority to help promote stability in the region, especially as we run up to elections in Bosnia and Herzegovina. And I don't want to prejudge, I will just say by tradition, it has been a European that has filled that role.

71:18in terms of a successor to Christian Schmidt, a European didn't replace him because there wasn't European consensus on who that would be.

71:30Exactly. So how reasonable is it to expect that BH will meet the 5 plus 2 criteria in let's say five years?

71:40Well, thank you, Mr. Chairman. When it comes to the Western Balkans, I'm always hesitant to speculate about the future. Good move. But what I can assure you is that we will work, we share your sentiment that international supervision of a sovereign state is 30 years after a conflict.

72:02It just isn't the state of affairs that we'd like to see. As you point out, there are specific criteria for phasing out the role of the high representative. Those haven't been achieved. But we continue to work with right now the acting high representative to promote stability in the region and we'll continue to do so.

72:21But you yourself have said we want to step back on the U political and move toward the commercial Partner of choice I think is your term But stability we 30 years on from Dayton 30 plus years on from Dayton.

72:40And as you say yourself, they are not meeting the 5 plus 2 criteria. So I think we need to think about perhaps lesser movements that we can do as a U.S. policy position.

72:59Well, thank you, Chairman Self. I can assure you that we don't want to see, you know, excessive international interventionism in the sovereignty of Bosnia and Herzegovina. As I mentioned in my opening statement, we favor local leaders forging local solutions to local problems.

73:17And I think you'll rightly point out when we look at stability, prosperity or commercial prosperity is they're two sides of the same coin. They're mutually reinforcing and we clearly want to promote both as we move forward.

73:33Thank you and before I yield I will say that I think Bosnia-Herzegovina flying apart is probably not outside the realm of the possibility, particularly given the RS positions. With that I yield back and I recognize Mr. Keating.

73:51Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I think this morning we've heard in this committee a rare example of bipartisan concern for Serbian relationships with Russia and China. That goes to both sides of the aisle, and I think the members here have been quite clear on that.

74:12And I think it was good that the chair highlighted the fact in terms of the strategic dialogue that the U.S.-Serbian strategic dialogue went forward, while the U.S.-Kosovo strategic dialogue remained suspended. Important to highlight.

74:33I do think that the Office of High Representative is critical, and I want to reaffirm support for that office. I do want to put the caveat in that I think that the administration should work with Europe to find a consensus in dealing with someone that will reaffirm the Dayton agreement in particular.

74:53But I want to get back to the strategic dialogue issue You correct sir in saying that you know that centered around energy cooperation and the importance of dealing with that issue but it didn seem to deal with a lot of other issues.

75:09You know, they went ahead with the strategic dialogue in July, and it gave another appearance, at least in my view, that it was to bolster Vucic ahead of his to own elections in October by doing those, by timing it that way.

75:30And I just think that one important issue that we addressed, many of us did anyways, this morning, I wanna ask you, was that addressed too? Was it the Russian and the PRC malign influence part of those discussions?

75:47That's something that people here showed concern both sides of the aisle on this morning. And certainly, if there was going to be a strategic dialogue, did it include, specifically, discussion of Russian and PRC malign influence?

76:03Something that clearly should have been addressed as part of that dialogue.

76:08Well, thank you, Ranking Member Keating, for the important question. What I can assure is that the strategic dialogue, which took place, as you said, in July, had nothing to do with the electoral process in Serbia.

76:25But I can also assure you-

76:26I must say it did give an appearance that way.

76:28Go ahead. What I can also assure you is that as part of our diplomatic dialogue with all our Western Balkan partners, we promote the United States as the partner of choice. And we also warn about the dangers, the pitfalls.

76:46So how do you, I'm concerned too, and I brought up with the pay-to-play report that we issued this morning, how the US is doing that, how they're showing support, and what channels that support goes through.

77:02Specifically, the fact that the lobbyists used for DODIC's delisting were people that had committed crimes, probably not the first in the list of people you would normally have, but why were they there? It's because of the close relationship with this administration.

77:23They were pardoned by this administration. One of them was a high official in this administration The other was his attorney So of all the people in the world lobbying those were the people that were there That gives an appearance as well in terms of corruption issues.

77:39You also look at the president's son-in-law getting involved in billion dollar business interests, private interests, who's also an envoy, special representative for the president, seemingly globally right now. And in spite of fierce opposition in the countries that he was dealing with, he proceeds as a person of influence in the area.

78:07So what messages are we sending here when we're talking about US interests? Number one, omitted in that strategic dialogue was to US security interests and concerns with PRC and Russia. and included in how things are channeled from the US, it's these people that are former criminals, lobbying and relatives of the president.

78:34What does that tell the people of the region?

78:37Thank you, ranking member Keating. And if I can take a little time here to respond, the decision to, and it's come up a couple of times here, the decision to D-list Dodick and people around him was related to resolving and defusing the deepest political crisis in Bosnia-Herzegovina in decades.

78:58As a result of US diplomacy, Milorad Dodik stepped aside as the president of the Republika Srpska and that legislature passed legislation took away the most anti-Daten legislation that they had previously passed. The substantive reason for the major substantive reason for the sanctions then was removed, and that's why he was delisted.

79:24He is no longer holding public office, and he's not a candidate for public office in the October election. So I just want to clarify that.

79:33I also just- He remains a destabilizing influence, and when one of our goals is stabilization. I can assure you- You grant me that.

79:42We in no way endorse his rhetoric and I can assure you that we continue across the political spectrum is to urge de-escalation of political rhetoric, divisive political rhetoric that's destabilized.

79:57I'm over my time. I yield back.

80:00Thank you. I thank Mr. Lawton for your valuable testimony, giving us a perspective of the U.S. policy in the Western Balkans and the members for their questions. The members of the committee may have some additional questions for you, and we will ask you to respond to those in writing.

80:17Pursuant to committee rules, all members will have five days to submit statements, questions, and extraneous materials for the record subject to the length limitations. Without objection, the committee stands adjourned.

80:31Yes, you did.