A small American firm linked to associates of former President Trump is involved in a $1.5 billion energy project in Bosnia and Herzegovina, raising concerns about U.S. influence in the region. U.S. lawmakers accuse the Trump administration of lifting sanctions on Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik to benefit Trump’s allies, potentially undermining U.S. foreign policy. Dodik, whose party recently won a presidency seat in Bosnia, praised Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin for their support. The firm, AAFS Infrastructure & Energy, led by Trump’s former attorney Jesse Binnall and Joseph Flynn, is close to securing a contract for the Southern Interconnection Gas Pipeline, which would connect Bosnia to Croatia’s gas network, reducing reliance on Russian gas. Despite Dodik’s previous opposition, he now supports the project following AAFS’ involvement. The pipeline aims to enhance Bosnia’s energy security, though AAFS lacks experience in similar projects.
QUESTION: How might the involvement of politically connected firms in international projects impact global relations and local communities?
Democrats see White House “pay for play” scheme with Balkan gas project
