Angie Craig: “I am not raising an objection to the Senate's approval of S. Res. 122 regarding the transfer of former Yugoslav…”

“I am not raising an objection to the Senate's approval of S. Res. 122 regarding the transfer of former Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic to the United Nations war crimes tribunal. It is clear that the primary purpose of the resolution is to applaud the fact that someone credibly alleged to have been a primary instigator of heinous crimes be brought to justice. I applaud that sentiment. A number of similarly culpable persons from all the groups concerned should have to answer for what has occurred during the past ten years of war and strife in former Yugoslavia, and by all accounts Milosevic tops the list. His prosecution and, if he is found guilty after a fair and open judicial process, his severe punishment are very much in order. However, despite my decision not to object to this resolution, I think it is important to point out that it contains several elements that do not serve United States interests. And some of what is stated in it is not even accurate.”