Bosnian Court Bans Pro-Russia Leader Milorad Dodik from Politics

An appeals court in Bosnia on Friday reinforced a prior judgement against Milorad Dodik, the Bosnian Serb president, sentencing him to a year in prison. The court also imposed a six-year political ban due to his separatist activities, escalating tensions in the sensitive Balkan region.

This verdict is a milestone in the ongoing political struggle in Bosnia and Herzegovina, concluding a trial that began last year and highlighting Dodik's defiance against international peace efforts.

Dodik has persistently advocated for the Serb-controlled section of Bosnia to merge with Serbia, a stance that led to U.S. sanctions under the previous administration. He also faces allegations of corruption and following pro-Russia policies.

(With inputs from agencies.)