British Foreign Secretary Hurd Denies Plans to Withdraw Peacekeepers from Bosnia-Herzegovina

Strategic Insights -

British Foreign Secretary Douglas Hurd reiterated on Wednesday that London has not decided to withdraw its peacekeepers from Bosnia-Herzegovina, but acknowledged the need to reconfigure the mission to better protect troops. Hurd, who spoke alongside US Secretary of State Warren Christopher, emphasized that the situation in Bosnia-Herzegovina continues to deteriorate, with intense fighting reported in Sarajevo. The UN peacekeeping mission has faced mounting challenges, including the loss of over 160 peacekeepers and 1,420 wounded personnel.

Key Takeaways:

  • British Foreign Secretary Douglas Hurd stated that London has not made a decision to withdraw its peacekeepers from Bosnia-Herzegovina.
  • Hurd and US Secretary of State Warren Christopher emphasized the need to reconfigure the UN peacekeeping mission to better protect troops.
  • The mission has faced significant challenges, with over 160 peacekeepers killed and 1,420 wounded.
  • Hurd noted that the British have 4,000 soldiers stationed in Bosnia-Herzegovina, with no decision made to reduce the number of troops.
  • The UN Security Council is considering four options for the Balkan peacekeepers: completely withdrawing, leaving the mission unchanged, repositioning troops, or enhancing armaments for a more effective defense.
  • U.S. and European officials are pushing for a reconfigured mission that prioritizes the safety of troops.
  • UN Secretary General Boutros Boutros-Ghali is leading a review of the Balkan peacekeeping mission, aiming to address European nations' concerns about troop safety.

Statistics:

  • 160 peacekeepers have been killed in the Balkans.
  • 1,420 peacekeepers have been wounded.
  • The British have 4,000 soldiers stationed in Bosnia-Herzegovina.
  • 160 peacekeepers killed.

Sources:

  • "British Foreign Secretary Says No Decision on Reduction of Troops in Bosnia," UPI, May 17 (SID BALMAN Jr.).
  • U.S. Department of State, On-Site Press Briefing, Washington, May 17.