Shocking Verdict: Belgrade High Court Acquits Milenko Živanović of War Crimes in Srebrenica!
Is justice truly served, or is this yet another blow to the memory of one of the darkest chapters in our history? The Belgrade High Court has delivered a first-instance verdict acquitting former commander of the Drina Corps of the Army of Republika Srpska, Milenko Živanović, of war crimes against the civilian population in Srebrenica in July 1995.
What Happened?
The court ruled that Živanović did not order the forced displacement of the Bosniak population from the protected zone of Srebrenica, but that his orders were directed at combat activities against enemy forces. The prosecution sought a minimum sentence of five years in prison, but the court dismissed these claims.
The Charges and Their Claims
The indictment accused Živanović of ordering daily planned combat activities aimed at creating unbearable conditions for the civilian population to force them to leave. He was also charged with ordering the provision of buses for the evacuation of the Srebrenica enclave, part of broader charges related to war crimes and genocide committed in July 1995, when over 8,000 Bosniaks were killed.
Reactions and Context
This verdict comes at a time when Serbia still does not recognize the genocide in Srebrenica, further complicating regional relations and justice for the victims. General Radislav Krstić, convicted of genocide, has again sought early release, while fierce debates about justice and accountability continue in the public sphere.
NGOs such as the Humanitarian Law Center have criticized the prosecution’s work for lacking sufficient evidence linking Živanović’s orders to the consequences that led to the crimes. Trials are ongoing for other members of the Army of Republika Srpska, including eight members of the special police brigade accused of killing Bosniak civilians in the Kravica warehouse.
What Does This Mean?
The acquittal of Milenko Živanović casts a shadow over justice for the victims of Srebrenica and reminds us how complex and often controversial the judicial system in the region is. Is this a sign that similar verdicts will follow? Or is it just one of many steps in the long and difficult process of confronting the past?
Conclusion
While justice in Srebrenica is still being sought, this verdict sparks anger and disbelief among many. Is it possible that a commander who led units involved in one of Europe’s greatest crimes remains unpunished? The court has decided so, but the question of justice remains open.
Got thoughts on this controversial verdict? Feel free to drop a comment. Who knows, maybe your words will spark the next big debate!
