The Wars in the Balkans

When NATO decided to use airstrikes against Bosnian Serb positions in Bosnia (1994-1995) to stop shelling in areas like Sarajevo, Russia objected and pressed for more involvement with the conflict in the former Yugoslavia. Russia had been long-time allies with the Serbs and felt airstrikes should only be used after all other negotiations had failed.

In January 1996, Russia sent in ground troops as peacekeepers alongside the NATO forces. It was hoped by NATO that the Russians could use their influence with the Serbs to help obtain peace.

This UN flag was used on a Russian United Nations Protective Force (UNPROFOR) armored personnel carrier (APC) during the war. The flag was obtained in a trade with Russian troops at their compound outside the Tito Barracks in dowtown Sarajevo.