Bosnian Serb Leader Faces Trial for Defying International Authority and Undermining Peace Accords
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Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik goes on trial accused of defying international envoy Christian Schmidt's authority over Bosnia.
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Schmidt can cancel laws or dismiss officials threatening peace under 1995 Dayton accord that ended Bosnian war.
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Dodik has introduced laws undermining Bosnia's institutions and banned Schmidt from visiting Serb area.
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If convicted, Dodik faces up to 5 years in prison and a ban from politics. He's threatened to declare independence.
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Russia and China refuse to recognize Schmidt. Schmidt believes Dodik stirs problems to stay in power with Moscow's support.