PETER
since Russia is democratic and is respecting international law according to you,how come your country didn't stay with in Russian federation???but look at you now, you are in EU and doing so much better..Russians are brutal,Putin is a Dictator that crushes any Democratic progres within Russia.
trusting Russians is what Destroyed Serbia and geve Serbs the worst image possible,Serbs should turn to the west,accept the reality,Kosovo belongs to its people,Kosovo is 92% Albanian and after 10 years of brutality and 8 outside of your control there is no turning back!!Autonomy is a joke, 1974 is long gone.
Joe says..."Well if through the high oil price Russia will get even stronger and very imperialistic again I hope that your country will feel it badly."
Why would you hope that something bad happens to any human being?
It is difficult to add to the accurate comments regarding this. I was just taken by one aspect, that is, Holbrooke fears violence. Jesus!! This was the instigator who initiated it
all!!! I hope the Serbs have the good sense to anticipate the future, because
with Hillary, he will continue where he left off.
God Love & Bless the Serbs and Russians!!!!
To Lenard: The fact you use a term like Bosniak shows that you really don't know much about the region. Bosniak is a fabricated invention since the 92-95 war to delegitimaze the presence of Serbian and Croatian people in Bosna-Hercegovina. In the prewar census there is not one mention of the term bosniak only Serbs, Croats and Muslims. In other words it is an attempt to revise history and make Serbs and Croats look like invaders or colonists.
I guarantee you that Holbrooke and company did not give Serbs anything much less Republika Srpska. If you read his book you would know that. However, you can't deny he and his group didn't create the Bosnian Muslim-Croat federation.
I am more and more resigned to the possibility that Hillary will become president (I had no problem with Bill, her husband).
The good thing would be that Holbrooke could become Secretary of State. That would be great! He would be the right man for that job.
He would take care of the Balkans and the neo-imperialistic Russians.
It's great to hear such comments from a man who sat with armed UCK guerillas nine years ago in Kosovo, giving them instructions on how to persist in their rebellion against Serbia, to set a stage for a NATO intervention, which would, at a later stage, and with US help, lead to their independence. And all that has come to conclusion today, with complete disrespect of the UN.
Let's look at Kosovo today, on the verge of independence from Serbia, as created by Clinton,Holbrooke, Albright and the likes.It is led by people with blood on their hands (Thaci, Ceku) that have accomplished the American goals - a generally used US pattern seen in Vietnam, Chile, Iraq, etc. Albright's praise of Thaci in Rambouillet ('a bright boy") sounded more like a praise to an intellectual midget. In America'a Kosovo 200 thousand Serbs are not allowed to return and have their say about the future of the province. This is the place where non-Albanians live in enclaves. In this Holbrooke's creation, not one murder of Serbs has been solved since 1999. This is the place where Gorazdevac happened (the slaughter of Serbian children) and the burning of Christian Orthodox Churches with Jihad at it's best. This is Holbrooke's achievement of a post Milosevic society. This is where Bondsteel was installed. The judgement that Russia is to blame for any future instability in the region can really come from an insincere jerk. Thank God that, with Milosevic gone, we don't get to see Holbrooke in Serbia anymore. And thank God that America has other people besides politicians, who are at a great disadvantage today in their efforts to save the country's face in the eyes of the world.
Nesha
Poland suffered under the Soviet Union fifty years ago, yes, I don't deny that, but that doesn't mean I should have anything against Russians. Russians, Ukrainians, peoples of the Baltic nations and others all suffered under Soviet rule. I know some Russian people working here in Warsaw, they are extremely well educated, intelligent and hard-working people, one of them is a very good friend of mine. I don't see why I should have anything against Russians as a whole.
As for Poland's relations with Russia, don't worry, they won't attack us, the days of states invading states and starting world wars is over, in any case our government now is working on improving relations with Germany and Russia (both states have welcomed his appointment, so there's a good start) with the last idiot soiled, as for the gas prices, they are still considerably cheaper than in the West, so I am not worried.
There is nothing more stupid than holding grudges against a group of people due to some action their government long before I was born. I don't live in the past.
Dragan : Where do you get your incredibly unbelievable facts! I hope it is not from Guards of Tazar Lazar paramilitary. You should be an adviser to PM Kostunica and take no responsibilities for the Serbs actions or policies. Fore four wars that Serbs started and lost on thier neighbors. You can give Holbrooke thanks for Srpska even being there today it would have been finished off by the Bosniaks and Croatians 12years ago. Peace would have reigned in the Balkans not these nonsense that keeps going on and on to oblivion.
Ah yes, you're right. Holbrooke was never Secretary of State, but Undersecretary of State, and US Ambassador to the UN. My mistake. Still, it doesn't make him any less of a clod.
Olf, yes you're also right, it's not just Holbrooke, it's the people on the ground. Of course Holbrooke is not the one to instigate or cause any future conflict (and seriously, let's hope it never happens). But at the same time, I hardly find him a credible voice on the Balkans, both when he was in the Clinton Administration, and now. It has little to do with him having a different opinion than me. Rather, it is the continued policy of one-sidedness that Washington continuously applies to a region where there are always three sides to an argument: "my" side, "your" side, and the "correct" side.
he was sitting on the ground with terrorists ( as the US-administration had labeled them before suddenly declaring them to be freedomfighters ) and now he dares to accuse others?
The words of a pure bureaucrat... pathetic..is this the "best" America has to offer as we deal with the world on the world stage. America has lost it's political soul..and the joksters that continue to get "prime time" on our channels are an embarrassment. You have and continue to destroy the very fabric of international laws and norms...As Russia is now offering the counterbalance along side Russia, he blames someone else for the delusional state of Bosnia he created and the support of a terrorist organization he was filmed with....Par for the Course American..hypocrites to the end...bravo Ricky.
Since his master Clinton left the main stage, his presence and influence has thankfully disappeared. Sounds like Ricky talks to Thaci everyday, breaks bread on Sunday, bearing gifts to the little ones on holidays. I suggest exile Ricky, in that room you legitimized terrorists in 1999..leave your shoes at the door as you continue to make new friends with Hamas, Osama, Islamic Jihad, and your newest groups of buddies..the ANA!
It is funny to see how you defend Russia, this great "democratic" country and "champion of human rights". It is strange to hear all this from the citizen of a country, who suffered so much from Russia. I have the impression that all that was not enough. Well if through the high oil price Russia will get even stronger and very imperialistic again I hope that your country will feel it badly. Don't count on the "military might" of the EU to defend you. Specially the French, but also the Germans would not do anything for you.
i think you guys are missing the man's qualities here, pragmatism and consistency. thaci and karadzic, it's all fine and acceptable to him.
i can imagine him giving an interview about karadzic at a later more convenient date.
"radovan karadzic, yes, i've known him for, oh, 20 years. he has a fine career behind him."
:)
MLKG has an excellent point. In 2009 the Clintons will be in power again, I believe this is inevitable. If you think the US is anti-Serb now (clearly it is!) then hold on for the next wave of persecution; time to cosy up to your true allies!
“The fact that you and your administration essentially picked one side to unequivocally support over the over has been one of the major problems in Balkan postwar reconstruction and reconciliation”
Mike let me add something more;
Problem is not Holbrook but people living here. It is not that long since the war ended, what reconciliation do you have in mind.
Problem is not Holbrook but people that see other as the problem not themselves.
Problem is that people that are used to rule don’t want to understand that the end to their rule over occupied parts has come to an end.
Problems are here not there Mike.
"How nice to see people here criticizing Holbrook in favour of Russia, mother of Human Rights.
Russia is the country where people are afraid to talk their minds yet and you go on and support that.
Nothing more to say except that I hope that you can live a week of Russian ordinary life.
(Olf, 22 November 2007 16:50)"
I don't know about you Olf, but I have been to Russia before (Kaliningrad Oblast and Moscow). Have you? Russia is a normal country to live in and I think you and many other people are fed some kind of strange Western misconceptions about it. I also know several Russians working here in Warsaw, they are perfectly normal people. It would be like me saying that Albania is some isolated, backwards country to live in because of Enver Hoxha, know what I mean?
Holbrook knows and trust SNAKE is no suprise to anyone.
Thank god that american people are sick and tired of war promoters and there is no chance in hell that either he or Hillary will get another chance.
Mike, although I agree with your analysis, the fact is that Holbrooke never was Secretary of state.
Ambassador (to the UN) and undersecretary. But never the man in charge. Something he is now desperately trying to achieve on Hillary's tail.
you don't have the same views in the world as the west and now you are trying to actually follow international law and stop the west of doing what they want to do
Don't get your hopes up yet Clean Cut. This guy predicted that Kosovo will be independent in 2006. Well, 2007 is almost over. And oh, do you know he's also closely linked with the ICG? You can hardly expect someone like that to be objective, not to mention accurate.
(lowe, 22 November 2007 14:35)
What are you talking about. He's been saying that since 1999. He constantly says this year or next year.
How nice to see people here criticizing Holbrook in favour of Russia, mother of Human Rights.
Russia is the country where people are afraid to talk their minds yet and you go on and support that.
Nothing more to say except that I hope that you can live a week of Russian ordinary life.
Richard Holbrooke wishes to no end that he was taken seriously. This is quite possibly one of the most arrogant man to even hold the Office of Secretary of State, and one of the most self-inflated and overrated statesmen we currently have.
This is also the man who's sole experience and knowledge of the Balkans, came from reading Robert Kaplan's apalling book "Balkan Ghosts". The very fact that he has the nerve to say that Thaci has a "fine career" ahead of him also reveals where his loyalties have been sold to. It's also no secret he has been a major KLA sympathizer since day one, and say the potential in them as a catalyst for instability with which to wedge US influence in a previously uninfluential area.
No, no, Mr. Holbrooke. The fact that you and your administration essentially picked one side to unequivocably support over the over has been one of the major problems in Balkan postwar reconstruction and reconciliation.
This man is one of the leading Serb haters in the previous Clinton administration and is one of the architects of the American anti-Serb policy which still lingers today because of his leftovers like Nicholas Burns. He is arrogant, and has an attitude that only America rules the world and should be able to do whatever they please. Basically, he is the epitome of the 'ugly American' that you hear about. The fact that he is friends with criminals like Hashim Thaci and speaks well of them, and is not friends with people like Boris Tadic, just tells you what kind of character he is.
When you look at the mess that is in the Balkans today and who is responsible for it, all roads lead to Holbrooke. Ethnic cleansing and genocide of the Serb population in Krajina, attempts to strip Bosnian Serbs of all autonomy, attempts to steal 15% of sovereign Serbian territory...these are all Holbrooke policies which are causing great shame to America in the eyes of most of the world.
This man should be sitting in the Hague, with his good friends, Ceku and Thaci.
"This man has a book long resume and experience and I think that he knows his "material". Lets listen to him because usually what this guy says, others do in the next months and years. Kosova will be Independent sooner than expected.
(Clean Cut, 22 November 2007 13:19) "
Don't get your hopes up yet Clean Cut. This guy predicted that Kosovo will be independent in 2006. Well, 2007 is almost over. And oh, do you know he's also closely linked with the ICG? You can hardly expect someone like that to be objective, not to mention accurate.
This man has a book long resume and experience and I think that he knows his "material". Lets listen to him because usually what this guy says, others do in the next months and years. Kosova will be Independent sooner than expected.
I don't care what Holbrooke says now, but I am really worried what will happen when this man becomes Hillary Clinton's Secretary of State...
With his blatant anti-Serb-attitude we can only fear the worst. Serbia will probably be blamed for the 9/11 attacks and who knows what else by that time...
I have known Hashim Thaci for about ten years now," Holbrook said. - Yes, you have nice friends in Kosovo, Croatia and the muslim part of Bosnia.
The people in the Balkan have heard this American "idol" give numerous statements. Most of them have been aimed at presenting himself as the big tactical genius. The history has shown the Europeans another picture of the "idol". He will be remembered for the failed agreement for Bosnia, impossible to implement, and for always being ready to show him off. The US has delivered many individuals to the Balkans. Some of them failed, others created a personal environment for their retirement. Mr. Holbrook should stay at home and help solving the problems on the US soil and stay out of speculations within the EU family countries. If he, on the other hand, is willing to finance the Kosova Independence for the next 25 years - yes, mr. "idol", be the guest of the European tax payers.
No, Mr Holbrook, the USA is to blame for the possible escalation of the violence. Oh, how painful for USA must be that malignant wound named Russia. Of course that Russia is on right track and in on its way of power. You just cannot face the fact that Russia is taking the all power. That must hurt a lot and I am so happy for that. Anyway, this man is just a political past and therefore should be ignored since he does not know what to say anymore after being in such pain coming from Russia. And btw I wish you many this kinds of friendships with people of Thaci’s profile since they all sooner or later end up behind the bars where you belong too.
Of course, Mr Holbrook, you never helped to start any wars. The fact that your name appears time and time again in hotspots and areas of bloodshed is just coincidence!
And the US stance of encouraging the Kosovo Albanians not to negotiate has helped things enormously.
And of course, why would Russia be able to use their veto when apparently only the US has that right (many, many times)?
Please, Mr Holbrook, don't try and act the innocent even if you do somehow sleep peacefully at night.
"I have known Hashim Thaci for about ten years now," Holbrook said.
- I think this sums up the type of trust worthy character Holbrooke is - anything he says I would have little faith in.
With regards who is to blame for the current and future "possible" but not inevitable instability is it not the US who are attempting to undermine the UN by flagrant disregard for what after all the US formulated and signed and agreed to in UN SC resolution 1244 - with Holbrookes blessing! Russia is not undermining this Resolution with flagrant words - Holbrooke must be so up his own jacksie he can no longer see the himself in the mirror when looking for blame and who is really underming the UN and international norms and laws - that could lead to instability.
One thing is positive he atleast admits that such a blind and abrupt act is likely to cause great instability - so much for it bringing stability - the main reason the US are apprantly pushing such folly. If they can now see the impending disaster surely they should be responsible enough to think again else they really are fully responsible!
If the US really act against the UN then I guess we really will be in a very turbulent period globally and what then of any UN resolution ?
Haha, this is brilliant, so because Russia does not agree with a state being recognized outside of international law due to the fact that there is no common agreement between the two of them (the first thing that would bring about stability), this American thinks that Russia is being difficult and that it could bring about violence?
The USA is the one that wants to recognize a country outside of international law, but blames the other for being the cause of possible violence?
Also he seems certain that the rest of the EU will follow the US's lead with regards to Kosovo's independence, when it is quite clear that there are three camps in the EU:
1) Those that will recognize unilateral independence once Kosovo declares it.
2) Those that will recognize independence based on agreement between both sides.
3) Those that will recognize Kosovo in accordance with international law and UNSC.
Also this claim that Russia is simply sticking to its guns because it is supposedly trying to make a comeback as a world superpower again is also just ridiculous! Russia is not the only one against Kosovo independence, this American is only angry because this country is the only one that really counts with regards to legal recognition!
The US is the one that makes a statement, throws in its troops and then has to try and clean the mess up (hoping that Europe will back them every time). I really hope the EU leave them to rot in Iraq and Afghanistan to their own nonsense, since they believe in it so much.
I end my opinion of this foolishness, I end with a quote which was quite common in Poland during my childhood which I feel represents the US's stance: "Albo s¹ z nami, albo ich nie ma!" (Either they are with us, or they don't exist - very common saying by the communist party).
"I have known Hashim Thaci for about ten years now," Holbrook said.
- I think this sums up the type of trust worthy character Holbrooke is - anything he says I would have little faith in.
With regards who is to blame for the current and future "possible" but not inevitable instability is it not the US who are attempting to undermine the UN by flagrant disregard for what after all the US formulated and signed and agreed to in UN SC resolution 1244 - with Holbrookes blessing! Russia is not undermining this Resolution with flagrant words - Holbrooke must be so up his own jacksie he can no longer see the himself in the mirror when looking for blame and who is really underming the UN and international norms and laws - that could lead to instability.
One thing is positive he atleast admits that such a blind and abrupt act is likely to cause great instability - so much for it bringing stability - the main reason the US are apprantly pushing such folly. If they can now see the impending disaster surely they should be responsible enough to think again else they really are fully responsible!
If the US really act against the UN then I guess we really will be in a very turbulent period globally and what then of any UN resolution ?
This man is one of the leading Serb haters in the previous Clinton administration and is one of the architects of the American anti-Serb policy which still lingers today because of his leftovers like Nicholas Burns. He is arrogant, and has an attitude that only America rules the world and should be able to do whatever they please. Basically, he is the epitome of the 'ugly American' that you hear about. The fact that he is friends with criminals like Hashim Thaci and speaks well of them, and is not friends with people like Boris Tadic, just tells you what kind of character he is.
When you look at the mess that is in the Balkans today and who is responsible for it, all roads lead to Holbrooke. Ethnic cleansing and genocide of the Serb population in Krajina, attempts to strip Bosnian Serbs of all autonomy, attempts to steal 15% of sovereign Serbian territory...these are all Holbrooke policies which are causing great shame to America in the eyes of most of the world.
This man should be sitting in the Hague, with his good friends, Ceku and Thaci.
I don't care what Holbrooke says now, but I am really worried what will happen when this man becomes Hillary Clinton's Secretary of State...
With his blatant anti-Serb-attitude we can only fear the worst. Serbia will probably be blamed for the 9/11 attacks and who knows what else by that time...
Of course, Mr Holbrook, you never helped to start any wars. The fact that your name appears time and time again in hotspots and areas of bloodshed is just coincidence!
And the US stance of encouraging the Kosovo Albanians not to negotiate has helped things enormously.
And of course, why would Russia be able to use their veto when apparently only the US has that right (many, many times)?
Please, Mr Holbrook, don't try and act the innocent even if you do somehow sleep peacefully at night.
No, Mr Holbrook, the USA is to blame for the possible escalation of the violence. Oh, how painful for USA must be that malignant wound named Russia. Of course that Russia is on right track and in on its way of power. You just cannot face the fact that Russia is taking the all power. That must hurt a lot and I am so happy for that. Anyway, this man is just a political past and therefore should be ignored since he does not know what to say anymore after being in such pain coming from Russia. And btw I wish you many this kinds of friendships with people of Thaci’s profile since they all sooner or later end up behind the bars where you belong too.
"This man has a book long resume and experience and I think that he knows his "material". Lets listen to him because usually what this guy says, others do in the next months and years. Kosova will be Independent sooner than expected.
(Clean Cut, 22 November 2007 13:19) "
Don't get your hopes up yet Clean Cut. This guy predicted that Kosovo will be independent in 2006. Well, 2007 is almost over. And oh, do you know he's also closely linked with the ICG? You can hardly expect someone like that to be objective, not to mention accurate.
Richard Holbrooke wishes to no end that he was taken seriously. This is quite possibly one of the most arrogant man to even hold the Office of Secretary of State, and one of the most self-inflated and overrated statesmen we currently have.
This is also the man who's sole experience and knowledge of the Balkans, came from reading Robert Kaplan's apalling book "Balkan Ghosts". The very fact that he has the nerve to say that Thaci has a "fine career" ahead of him also reveals where his loyalties have been sold to. It's also no secret he has been a major KLA sympathizer since day one, and say the potential in them as a catalyst for instability with which to wedge US influence in a previously uninfluential area.
No, no, Mr. Holbrooke. The fact that you and your administration essentially picked one side to unequivocably support over the over has been one of the major problems in Balkan postwar reconstruction and reconciliation.
Haha, this is brilliant, so because Russia does not agree with a state being recognized outside of international law due to the fact that there is no common agreement between the two of them (the first thing that would bring about stability), this American thinks that Russia is being difficult and that it could bring about violence?
The USA is the one that wants to recognize a country outside of international law, but blames the other for being the cause of possible violence?
Also he seems certain that the rest of the EU will follow the US's lead with regards to Kosovo's independence, when it is quite clear that there are three camps in the EU:
1) Those that will recognize unilateral independence once Kosovo declares it.
2) Those that will recognize independence based on agreement between both sides.
3) Those that will recognize Kosovo in accordance with international law and UNSC.
Also this claim that Russia is simply sticking to its guns because it is supposedly trying to make a comeback as a world superpower again is also just ridiculous! Russia is not the only one against Kosovo independence, this American is only angry because this country is the only one that really counts with regards to legal recognition!
The US is the one that makes a statement, throws in its troops and then has to try and clean the mess up (hoping that Europe will back them every time). I really hope the EU leave them to rot in Iraq and Afghanistan to their own nonsense, since they believe in it so much.
I end my opinion of this foolishness, I end with a quote which was quite common in Poland during my childhood which I feel represents the US's stance: "Albo s¹ z nami, albo ich nie ma!" (Either they are with us, or they don't exist - very common saying by the communist party).
I have known Hashim Thaci for about ten years now," Holbrook said. - Yes, you have nice friends in Kosovo, Croatia and the muslim part of Bosnia.
The people in the Balkan have heard this American "idol" give numerous statements. Most of them have been aimed at presenting himself as the big tactical genius. The history has shown the Europeans another picture of the "idol". He will be remembered for the failed agreement for Bosnia, impossible to implement, and for always being ready to show him off. The US has delivered many individuals to the Balkans. Some of them failed, others created a personal environment for their retirement. Mr. Holbrook should stay at home and help solving the problems on the US soil and stay out of speculations within the EU family countries. If he, on the other hand, is willing to finance the Kosova Independence for the next 25 years - yes, mr. "idol", be the guest of the European tax payers.
"How nice to see people here criticizing Holbrook in favour of Russia, mother of Human Rights.
Russia is the country where people are afraid to talk their minds yet and you go on and support that.
Nothing more to say except that I hope that you can live a week of Russian ordinary life.
(Olf, 22 November 2007 16:50)"
I don't know about you Olf, but I have been to Russia before (Kaliningrad Oblast and Moscow). Have you? Russia is a normal country to live in and I think you and many other people are fed some kind of strange Western misconceptions about it. I also know several Russians working here in Warsaw, they are perfectly normal people. It would be like me saying that Albania is some isolated, backwards country to live in because of Enver Hoxha, know what I mean?
MLKG has an excellent point. In 2009 the Clintons will be in power again, I believe this is inevitable. If you think the US is anti-Serb now (clearly it is!) then hold on for the next wave of persecution; time to cosy up to your true allies!
you don't have the same views in the world as the west and now you are trying to actually follow international law and stop the west of doing what they want to do
Don't get your hopes up yet Clean Cut. This guy predicted that Kosovo will be independent in 2006. Well, 2007 is almost over. And oh, do you know he's also closely linked with the ICG? You can hardly expect someone like that to be objective, not to mention accurate.
(lowe, 22 November 2007 14:35)
What are you talking about. He's been saying that since 1999. He constantly says this year or next year.
Poland suffered under the Soviet Union fifty years ago, yes, I don't deny that, but that doesn't mean I should have anything against Russians. Russians, Ukrainians, peoples of the Baltic nations and others all suffered under Soviet rule. I know some Russian people working here in Warsaw, they are extremely well educated, intelligent and hard-working people, one of them is a very good friend of mine. I don't see why I should have anything against Russians as a whole.
As for Poland's relations with Russia, don't worry, they won't attack us, the days of states invading states and starting world wars is over, in any case our government now is working on improving relations with Germany and Russia (both states have welcomed his appointment, so there's a good start) with the last idiot soiled, as for the gas prices, they are still considerably cheaper than in the West, so I am not worried.
There is nothing more stupid than holding grudges against a group of people due to some action their government long before I was born. I don't live in the past.
Holbrook knows and trust SNAKE is no suprise to anyone.
Thank god that american people are sick and tired of war promoters and there is no chance in hell that either he or Hillary will get another chance.
The words of a pure bureaucrat... pathetic..is this the "best" America has to offer as we deal with the world on the world stage. America has lost it's political soul..and the joksters that continue to get "prime time" on our channels are an embarrassment. You have and continue to destroy the very fabric of international laws and norms...As Russia is now offering the counterbalance along side Russia, he blames someone else for the delusional state of Bosnia he created and the support of a terrorist organization he was filmed with....Par for the Course American..hypocrites to the end...bravo Ricky.
Since his master Clinton left the main stage, his presence and influence has thankfully disappeared. Sounds like Ricky talks to Thaci everyday, breaks bread on Sunday, bearing gifts to the little ones on holidays. I suggest exile Ricky, in that room you legitimized terrorists in 1999..leave your shoes at the door as you continue to make new friends with Hamas, Osama, Islamic Jihad, and your newest groups of buddies..the ANA!
This man has a book long resume and experience and I think that he knows his "material". Lets listen to him because usually what this guy says, others do in the next months and years. Kosova will be Independent sooner than expected.
Mike, although I agree with your analysis, the fact is that Holbrooke never was Secretary of state.
Ambassador (to the UN) and undersecretary. But never the man in charge. Something he is now desperately trying to achieve on Hillary's tail.
he was sitting on the ground with terrorists ( as the US-administration had labeled them before suddenly declaring them to be freedomfighters ) and now he dares to accuse others?
It's great to hear such comments from a man who sat with armed UCK guerillas nine years ago in Kosovo, giving them instructions on how to persist in their rebellion against Serbia, to set a stage for a NATO intervention, which would, at a later stage, and with US help, lead to their independence. And all that has come to conclusion today, with complete disrespect of the UN.
Let's look at Kosovo today, on the verge of independence from Serbia, as created by Clinton,Holbrooke, Albright and the likes.It is led by people with blood on their hands (Thaci, Ceku) that have accomplished the American goals - a generally used US pattern seen in Vietnam, Chile, Iraq, etc. Albright's praise of Thaci in Rambouillet ('a bright boy") sounded more like a praise to an intellectual midget. In America'a Kosovo 200 thousand Serbs are not allowed to return and have their say about the future of the province. This is the place where non-Albanians live in enclaves. In this Holbrooke's creation, not one murder of Serbs has been solved since 1999. This is the place where Gorazdevac happened (the slaughter of Serbian children) and the burning of Christian Orthodox Churches with Jihad at it's best. This is Holbrooke's achievement of a post Milosevic society. This is where Bondsteel was installed. The judgement that Russia is to blame for any future instability in the region can really come from an insincere jerk. Thank God that, with Milosevic gone, we don't get to see Holbrooke in Serbia anymore. And thank God that America has other people besides politicians, who are at a great disadvantage today in their efforts to save the country's face in the eyes of the world.
Nesha
How nice to see people here criticizing Holbrook in favour of Russia, mother of Human Rights.
Russia is the country where people are afraid to talk their minds yet and you go on and support that.
Nothing more to say except that I hope that you can live a week of Russian ordinary life.
Ah yes, you're right. Holbrooke was never Secretary of State, but Undersecretary of State, and US Ambassador to the UN. My mistake. Still, it doesn't make him any less of a clod.
Olf, yes you're also right, it's not just Holbrooke, it's the people on the ground. Of course Holbrooke is not the one to instigate or cause any future conflict (and seriously, let's hope it never happens). But at the same time, I hardly find him a credible voice on the Balkans, both when he was in the Clinton Administration, and now. It has little to do with him having a different opinion than me. Rather, it is the continued policy of one-sidedness that Washington continuously applies to a region where there are always three sides to an argument: "my" side, "your" side, and the "correct" side.
Joe says..."Well if through the high oil price Russia will get even stronger and very imperialistic again I hope that your country will feel it badly."
Why would you hope that something bad happens to any human being?
“The fact that you and your administration essentially picked one side to unequivocally support over the over has been one of the major problems in Balkan postwar reconstruction and reconciliation”
Mike let me add something more;
Problem is not Holbrook but people living here. It is not that long since the war ended, what reconciliation do you have in mind.
Problem is not Holbrook but people that see other as the problem not themselves.
Problem is that people that are used to rule don’t want to understand that the end to their rule over occupied parts has come to an end.
Problems are here not there Mike.
To Lenard: The fact you use a term like Bosniak shows that you really don't know much about the region. Bosniak is a fabricated invention since the 92-95 war to delegitimaze the presence of Serbian and Croatian people in Bosna-Hercegovina. In the prewar census there is not one mention of the term bosniak only Serbs, Croats and Muslims. In other words it is an attempt to revise history and make Serbs and Croats look like invaders or colonists.
I guarantee you that Holbrooke and company did not give Serbs anything much less Republika Srpska. If you read his book you would know that. However, you can't deny he and his group didn't create the Bosnian Muslim-Croat federation.
It is difficult to add to the accurate comments regarding this. I was just taken by one aspect, that is, Holbrooke fears violence. Jesus!! This was the instigator who initiated it
all!!! I hope the Serbs have the good sense to anticipate the future, because
with Hillary, he will continue where he left off.
God Love & Bless the Serbs and Russians!!!!
i think you guys are missing the man's qualities here, pragmatism and consistency. thaci and karadzic, it's all fine and acceptable to him.
i can imagine him giving an interview about karadzic at a later more convenient date.
"radovan karadzic, yes, i've known him for, oh, 20 years. he has a fine career behind him."
:)
It is funny to see how you defend Russia, this great "democratic" country and "champion of human rights". It is strange to hear all this from the citizen of a country, who suffered so much from Russia. I have the impression that all that was not enough. Well if through the high oil price Russia will get even stronger and very imperialistic again I hope that your country will feel it badly. Don't count on the "military might" of the EU to defend you. Specially the French, but also the Germans would not do anything for you.
Dragan : Where do you get your incredibly unbelievable facts! I hope it is not from Guards of Tazar Lazar paramilitary. You should be an adviser to PM Kostunica and take no responsibilities for the Serbs actions or policies. Fore four wars that Serbs started and lost on thier neighbors. You can give Holbrooke thanks for Srpska even being there today it would have been finished off by the Bosniaks and Croatians 12years ago. Peace would have reigned in the Balkans not these nonsense that keeps going on and on to oblivion.
I am more and more resigned to the possibility that Hillary will become president (I had no problem with Bill, her husband).
The good thing would be that Holbrooke could become Secretary of State. That would be great! He would be the right man for that job.
He would take care of the Balkans and the neo-imperialistic Russians.
PETER
since Russia is democratic and is respecting international law according to you,how come your country didn't stay with in Russian federation???but look at you now, you are in EU and doing so much better..Russians are brutal,Putin is a Dictator that crushes any Democratic progres within Russia.
trusting Russians is what Destroyed Serbia and geve Serbs the worst image possible,Serbs should turn to the west,accept the reality,Kosovo belongs to its people,Kosovo is 92% Albanian and after 10 years of brutality and 8 outside of your control there is no turning back!!Autonomy is a joke, 1974 is long gone.
How nice to see people here criticizing Holbrook in favour of Russia, mother of Human Rights.
Russia is the country where people are afraid to talk their minds yet and you go on and support that.
Nothing more to say except that I hope that you can live a week of Russian ordinary life.
This man has a book long resume and experience and I think that he knows his "material". Lets listen to him because usually what this guy says, others do in the next months and years. Kosova will be Independent sooner than expected.
“The fact that you and your administration essentially picked one side to unequivocally support over the over has been one of the major problems in Balkan postwar reconstruction and reconciliation”
Mike let me add something more;
Problem is not Holbrook but people living here. It is not that long since the war ended, what reconciliation do you have in mind.
Problem is not Holbrook but people that see other as the problem not themselves.
Problem is that people that are used to rule don’t want to understand that the end to their rule over occupied parts has come to an end.
Problems are here not there Mike.
Dragan : Where do you get your incredibly unbelievable facts! I hope it is not from Guards of Tazar Lazar paramilitary. You should be an adviser to PM Kostunica and take no responsibilities for the Serbs actions or policies. Fore four wars that Serbs started and lost on thier neighbors. You can give Holbrooke thanks for Srpska even being there today it would have been finished off by the Bosniaks and Croatians 12years ago. Peace would have reigned in the Balkans not these nonsense that keeps going on and on to oblivion.
Of course, Mr Holbrook, you never helped to start any wars. The fact that your name appears time and time again in hotspots and areas of bloodshed is just coincidence!
And the US stance of encouraging the Kosovo Albanians not to negotiate has helped things enormously.
And of course, why would Russia be able to use their veto when apparently only the US has that right (many, many times)?
Please, Mr Holbrook, don't try and act the innocent even if you do somehow sleep peacefully at night.
This man is one of the leading Serb haters in the previous Clinton administration and is one of the architects of the American anti-Serb policy which still lingers today because of his leftovers like Nicholas Burns. He is arrogant, and has an attitude that only America rules the world and should be able to do whatever they please. Basically, he is the epitome of the 'ugly American' that you hear about. The fact that he is friends with criminals like Hashim Thaci and speaks well of them, and is not friends with people like Boris Tadic, just tells you what kind of character he is.
When you look at the mess that is in the Balkans today and who is responsible for it, all roads lead to Holbrooke. Ethnic cleansing and genocide of the Serb population in Krajina, attempts to strip Bosnian Serbs of all autonomy, attempts to steal 15% of sovereign Serbian territory...these are all Holbrooke policies which are causing great shame to America in the eyes of most of the world.
This man should be sitting in the Hague, with his good friends, Ceku and Thaci.
It is funny to see how you defend Russia, this great "democratic" country and "champion of human rights". It is strange to hear all this from the citizen of a country, who suffered so much from Russia. I have the impression that all that was not enough. Well if through the high oil price Russia will get even stronger and very imperialistic again I hope that your country will feel it badly. Don't count on the "military might" of the EU to defend you. Specially the French, but also the Germans would not do anything for you.
I am more and more resigned to the possibility that Hillary will become president (I had no problem with Bill, her husband).
The good thing would be that Holbrooke could become Secretary of State. That would be great! He would be the right man for that job.
He would take care of the Balkans and the neo-imperialistic Russians.
"I have known Hashim Thaci for about ten years now," Holbrook said.
- I think this sums up the type of trust worthy character Holbrooke is - anything he says I would have little faith in.
With regards who is to blame for the current and future "possible" but not inevitable instability is it not the US who are attempting to undermine the UN by flagrant disregard for what after all the US formulated and signed and agreed to in UN SC resolution 1244 - with Holbrookes blessing! Russia is not undermining this Resolution with flagrant words - Holbrooke must be so up his own jacksie he can no longer see the himself in the mirror when looking for blame and who is really underming the UN and international norms and laws - that could lead to instability.
One thing is positive he atleast admits that such a blind and abrupt act is likely to cause great instability - so much for it bringing stability - the main reason the US are apprantly pushing such folly. If they can now see the impending disaster surely they should be responsible enough to think again else they really are fully responsible!
If the US really act against the UN then I guess we really will be in a very turbulent period globally and what then of any UN resolution ?
No, Mr Holbrook, the USA is to blame for the possible escalation of the violence. Oh, how painful for USA must be that malignant wound named Russia. Of course that Russia is on right track and in on its way of power. You just cannot face the fact that Russia is taking the all power. That must hurt a lot and I am so happy for that. Anyway, this man is just a political past and therefore should be ignored since he does not know what to say anymore after being in such pain coming from Russia. And btw I wish you many this kinds of friendships with people of Thaci’s profile since they all sooner or later end up behind the bars where you belong too.
Haha, this is brilliant, so because Russia does not agree with a state being recognized outside of international law due to the fact that there is no common agreement between the two of them (the first thing that would bring about stability), this American thinks that Russia is being difficult and that it could bring about violence?
The USA is the one that wants to recognize a country outside of international law, but blames the other for being the cause of possible violence?
Also he seems certain that the rest of the EU will follow the US's lead with regards to Kosovo's independence, when it is quite clear that there are three camps in the EU:
1) Those that will recognize unilateral independence once Kosovo declares it.
2) Those that will recognize independence based on agreement between both sides.
3) Those that will recognize Kosovo in accordance with international law and UNSC.
Also this claim that Russia is simply sticking to its guns because it is supposedly trying to make a comeback as a world superpower again is also just ridiculous! Russia is not the only one against Kosovo independence, this American is only angry because this country is the only one that really counts with regards to legal recognition!
The US is the one that makes a statement, throws in its troops and then has to try and clean the mess up (hoping that Europe will back them every time). I really hope the EU leave them to rot in Iraq and Afghanistan to their own nonsense, since they believe in it so much.
I end my opinion of this foolishness, I end with a quote which was quite common in Poland during my childhood which I feel represents the US's stance: "Albo s¹ z nami, albo ich nie ma!" (Either they are with us, or they don't exist - very common saying by the communist party).
I have known Hashim Thaci for about ten years now," Holbrook said. - Yes, you have nice friends in Kosovo, Croatia and the muslim part of Bosnia.
The people in the Balkan have heard this American "idol" give numerous statements. Most of them have been aimed at presenting himself as the big tactical genius. The history has shown the Europeans another picture of the "idol". He will be remembered for the failed agreement for Bosnia, impossible to implement, and for always being ready to show him off. The US has delivered many individuals to the Balkans. Some of them failed, others created a personal environment for their retirement. Mr. Holbrook should stay at home and help solving the problems on the US soil and stay out of speculations within the EU family countries. If he, on the other hand, is willing to finance the Kosova Independence for the next 25 years - yes, mr. "idol", be the guest of the European tax payers.
I don't care what Holbrooke says now, but I am really worried what will happen when this man becomes Hillary Clinton's Secretary of State...
With his blatant anti-Serb-attitude we can only fear the worst. Serbia will probably be blamed for the 9/11 attacks and who knows what else by that time...
"This man has a book long resume and experience and I think that he knows his "material". Lets listen to him because usually what this guy says, others do in the next months and years. Kosova will be Independent sooner than expected.
(Clean Cut, 22 November 2007 13:19) "
Don't get your hopes up yet Clean Cut. This guy predicted that Kosovo will be independent in 2006. Well, 2007 is almost over. And oh, do you know he's also closely linked with the ICG? You can hardly expect someone like that to be objective, not to mention accurate.
you don't have the same views in the world as the west and now you are trying to actually follow international law and stop the west of doing what they want to do
Don't get your hopes up yet Clean Cut. This guy predicted that Kosovo will be independent in 2006. Well, 2007 is almost over. And oh, do you know he's also closely linked with the ICG? You can hardly expect someone like that to be objective, not to mention accurate.
(lowe, 22 November 2007 14:35)
What are you talking about. He's been saying that since 1999. He constantly says this year or next year.
Holbrook knows and trust SNAKE is no suprise to anyone.
Thank god that american people are sick and tired of war promoters and there is no chance in hell that either he or Hillary will get another chance.
"How nice to see people here criticizing Holbrook in favour of Russia, mother of Human Rights.
Russia is the country where people are afraid to talk their minds yet and you go on and support that.
Nothing more to say except that I hope that you can live a week of Russian ordinary life.
(Olf, 22 November 2007 16:50)"
I don't know about you Olf, but I have been to Russia before (Kaliningrad Oblast and Moscow). Have you? Russia is a normal country to live in and I think you and many other people are fed some kind of strange Western misconceptions about it. I also know several Russians working here in Warsaw, they are perfectly normal people. It would be like me saying that Albania is some isolated, backwards country to live in because of Enver Hoxha, know what I mean?
MLKG has an excellent point. In 2009 the Clintons will be in power again, I believe this is inevitable. If you think the US is anti-Serb now (clearly it is!) then hold on for the next wave of persecution; time to cosy up to your true allies!
i think you guys are missing the man's qualities here, pragmatism and consistency. thaci and karadzic, it's all fine and acceptable to him.
i can imagine him giving an interview about karadzic at a later more convenient date.
"radovan karadzic, yes, i've known him for, oh, 20 years. he has a fine career behind him."
:)
Richard Holbrooke wishes to no end that he was taken seriously. This is quite possibly one of the most arrogant man to even hold the Office of Secretary of State, and one of the most self-inflated and overrated statesmen we currently have.
This is also the man who's sole experience and knowledge of the Balkans, came from reading Robert Kaplan's apalling book "Balkan Ghosts". The very fact that he has the nerve to say that Thaci has a "fine career" ahead of him also reveals where his loyalties have been sold to. It's also no secret he has been a major KLA sympathizer since day one, and say the potential in them as a catalyst for instability with which to wedge US influence in a previously uninfluential area.
No, no, Mr. Holbrooke. The fact that you and your administration essentially picked one side to unequivocably support over the over has been one of the major problems in Balkan postwar reconstruction and reconciliation.
Mike, although I agree with your analysis, the fact is that Holbrooke never was Secretary of state.
Ambassador (to the UN) and undersecretary. But never the man in charge. Something he is now desperately trying to achieve on Hillary's tail.
The words of a pure bureaucrat... pathetic..is this the "best" America has to offer as we deal with the world on the world stage. America has lost it's political soul..and the joksters that continue to get "prime time" on our channels are an embarrassment. You have and continue to destroy the very fabric of international laws and norms...As Russia is now offering the counterbalance along side Russia, he blames someone else for the delusional state of Bosnia he created and the support of a terrorist organization he was filmed with....Par for the Course American..hypocrites to the end...bravo Ricky.
Since his master Clinton left the main stage, his presence and influence has thankfully disappeared. Sounds like Ricky talks to Thaci everyday, breaks bread on Sunday, bearing gifts to the little ones on holidays. I suggest exile Ricky, in that room you legitimized terrorists in 1999..leave your shoes at the door as you continue to make new friends with Hamas, Osama, Islamic Jihad, and your newest groups of buddies..the ANA!
he was sitting on the ground with terrorists ( as the US-administration had labeled them before suddenly declaring them to be freedomfighters ) and now he dares to accuse others?
Ah yes, you're right. Holbrooke was never Secretary of State, but Undersecretary of State, and US Ambassador to the UN. My mistake. Still, it doesn't make him any less of a clod.
Olf, yes you're also right, it's not just Holbrooke, it's the people on the ground. Of course Holbrooke is not the one to instigate or cause any future conflict (and seriously, let's hope it never happens). But at the same time, I hardly find him a credible voice on the Balkans, both when he was in the Clinton Administration, and now. It has little to do with him having a different opinion than me. Rather, it is the continued policy of one-sidedness that Washington continuously applies to a region where there are always three sides to an argument: "my" side, "your" side, and the "correct" side.
Poland suffered under the Soviet Union fifty years ago, yes, I don't deny that, but that doesn't mean I should have anything against Russians. Russians, Ukrainians, peoples of the Baltic nations and others all suffered under Soviet rule. I know some Russian people working here in Warsaw, they are extremely well educated, intelligent and hard-working people, one of them is a very good friend of mine. I don't see why I should have anything against Russians as a whole.
As for Poland's relations with Russia, don't worry, they won't attack us, the days of states invading states and starting world wars is over, in any case our government now is working on improving relations with Germany and Russia (both states have welcomed his appointment, so there's a good start) with the last idiot soiled, as for the gas prices, they are still considerably cheaper than in the West, so I am not worried.
There is nothing more stupid than holding grudges against a group of people due to some action their government long before I was born. I don't live in the past.
It's great to hear such comments from a man who sat with armed UCK guerillas nine years ago in Kosovo, giving them instructions on how to persist in their rebellion against Serbia, to set a stage for a NATO intervention, which would, at a later stage, and with US help, lead to their independence. And all that has come to conclusion today, with complete disrespect of the UN.
Let's look at Kosovo today, on the verge of independence from Serbia, as created by Clinton,Holbrooke, Albright and the likes.It is led by people with blood on their hands (Thaci, Ceku) that have accomplished the American goals - a generally used US pattern seen in Vietnam, Chile, Iraq, etc. Albright's praise of Thaci in Rambouillet ('a bright boy") sounded more like a praise to an intellectual midget. In America'a Kosovo 200 thousand Serbs are not allowed to return and have their say about the future of the province. This is the place where non-Albanians live in enclaves. In this Holbrooke's creation, not one murder of Serbs has been solved since 1999. This is the place where Gorazdevac happened (the slaughter of Serbian children) and the burning of Christian Orthodox Churches with Jihad at it's best. This is Holbrooke's achievement of a post Milosevic society. This is where Bondsteel was installed. The judgement that Russia is to blame for any future instability in the region can really come from an insincere jerk. Thank God that, with Milosevic gone, we don't get to see Holbrooke in Serbia anymore. And thank God that America has other people besides politicians, who are at a great disadvantage today in their efforts to save the country's face in the eyes of the world.
Nesha
To Lenard: The fact you use a term like Bosniak shows that you really don't know much about the region. Bosniak is a fabricated invention since the 92-95 war to delegitimaze the presence of Serbian and Croatian people in Bosna-Hercegovina. In the prewar census there is not one mention of the term bosniak only Serbs, Croats and Muslims. In other words it is an attempt to revise history and make Serbs and Croats look like invaders or colonists.
I guarantee you that Holbrooke and company did not give Serbs anything much less Republika Srpska. If you read his book you would know that. However, you can't deny he and his group didn't create the Bosnian Muslim-Croat federation.
It is difficult to add to the accurate comments regarding this. I was just taken by one aspect, that is, Holbrooke fears violence. Jesus!! This was the instigator who initiated it
all!!! I hope the Serbs have the good sense to anticipate the future, because
with Hillary, he will continue where he left off.
God Love & Bless the Serbs and Russians!!!!
Joe says..."Well if through the high oil price Russia will get even stronger and very imperialistic again I hope that your country will feel it badly."
Why would you hope that something bad happens to any human being?
PETER
since Russia is democratic and is respecting international law according to you,how come your country didn't stay with in Russian federation???but look at you now, you are in EU and doing so much better..Russians are brutal,Putin is a Dictator that crushes any Democratic progres within Russia.
trusting Russians is what Destroyed Serbia and geve Serbs the worst image possible,Serbs should turn to the west,accept the reality,Kosovo belongs to its people,Kosovo is 92% Albanian and after 10 years of brutality and 8 outside of your control there is no turning back!!Autonomy is a joke, 1974 is long gone.
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