Republika Srpska Doesn't Want to Lose Russia to NATO

Milorad Dodik, President of Republika Srpska is pictured on an election poster calling for votes for a referendum on their Statehood Day in Prnjavor, Bosnia and Herzegovina, September 21, 2016. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic

Republika Srpska (RS), one of the constituting parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina, wants a referendum on the country joining NATO, RS President Milorad Dodik said in an exclusive interview with Sputnik.

Dodik pointed out that a referendum would give the people an opportunity to voice their opinions on the possible integration of Bosnia and Herzegovina into the alliance when the issue is on the agenda.

"Several years ago we were not against some aspects of military cooperation with the alliance. But now the situation is different. NATO wants Bosnia and Herzegovina to join the military bloc without the consent of Republika Srpska. This is why the people's voice is...