The capture of Mladic signals the start of the justice process the victims of Srebrenica and their families. However, it does not mean that the rifts in this region have fully healed.
Congressman Mike Turner released the following statement upon the news of the capture of Ratko Mladic, the fugitive Commander accused of masterminding the massacre at Srebrenica in 1995:
“In 2009, I attended a funeral for over 500 victims who died during the genocide in Srebrenica, and I saw firsthand the pain and suffering of the victim’s families. The capture of Mladic signals the start of the justice process the victims of Srebrenica and their families. However, it does not mean that the rifts in this region have fully healed. With Mladic’s capture comes the best opportunity for stability and reconciliation in the Balkan region, in addition to Serbia’s integration into the EU.
We must remain committed to lasting peace in this region. On May 9, 2011, High Representative Valentin Inzko made clear to the United Nations Security Council that Bosnia and Herzegovina is in the midst of its worst crisis since the Dayton Peace Accords were signed in 1995. Now is the time for the United States, along with members of the international community, to take swift action and renew our commitment to lasting peace in the Balkans. The stability of the region would be bolstered by hosting a Dayton Peace Accords II. I have made the U.S. Department of State aware of the urgent need of another Dayton summit, and will continue to press ahead as we seek to avoid conflict, and ensure peace.”