Statement regarding NATO campaign in Yugoslavia

By John Sitilides <sitilides@westernpolicy.org>,
Executive Director, The Western Policy Center¹

"There is considerable concern over the precise objectives of the military campaign. Milosevic's survival, if accomplished, may set back U.S. and NATO credibility on the eve of the alliance's 50th anniversary summit.

"Greece is attempting to balance its alliance obligations and its regional interests. Opening Thessaloniki to thousands of NATO troops who may serve as peacekeepers in Kosovo is part of Greece's responsibility to the NATO alliance. Maintaining ties to Belgrade, by refraining from the current attacks against Yugoslav targets and Serbian forces, helps preserve Greece's longstanding preeminence in the Balkans.

"President Clinton's repeatedly stated concerns about the impact of this campaign on our NATO ally Greece, and his reaffirmed commitment to resolving Greek-Turkish problems as one of three requirements for European security, offers Greece a valuable opportunity. Prime Minister Simitis' meeting with President Clinton in Washington next month can promote a stronger American commitment to pursuing these shared objectives."