France Threatens to Withdraw Troops from Bosnia-Herzegovina

Strategic Insights -

The French government reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace in Bosnia-Herzegovina, but cautioned that it cannot accept being seen as an obstacle to a political settlement. Foreign Minister Alain Juppe warned that France, the largest contributor to the UN peacekeeping operation, would consider withdrawing its troops if conditions on the ground do not improve rapidly. Juppe's statement comes after a meeting with his British counterpart, Douglas Hurd, where they agreed on the need for increased diplomatic efforts and a stronger response to attacks on peacekeepers and civilians.

Key Takeaways:

  • France has threatened to withdraw its troops from Bosnia-Herzegovina if conditions do not improve rapidly, with 36 French peacekeepers killed since 1992.
  • France is the largest contributor to the UN peacekeeping operation in ex-Yugoslavia with 4,500 troops, followed by Britain with 3,500 troops.
  • Foreign Minister Alain Juppe called for an extension of the cease-fire, which expired May 1, peacekeeping reinforcements, and a continuation of diplomatic efforts.
  • U.N. Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali has ordered a "fundamental review" of the role of U.N. troops in the former Yugoslavia.
  • Attacks on the civilian population in the former Yugoslavia should not be allowed to go without retaliation, according to Juppe.
  • France will not withdraw its forces without consulting with its European partners, particularly the British, said Juppe.

Statistics:

  • 36 French peacekeepers have been killed in Bosnia-Herzegovina since 1992.
  • France has 4,500 troops in the UN peacekeeping operation in ex-Yugoslavia.
  • Britain has 3,500 troops in the UN peacekeeping operation in ex-Yugoslavia.

Sources:

  • [BBC News, "France threatens again to withdraw troops from Bosnia", 15 May, no date provided but corresponds to the Paris date]