Russian Troops Arriving in Bosnia

By Linda D. Kozaryn
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 17, 1996 – Lead elements of a Russian combat brigade began arriving in Tuzla Jan. 12 to join their American counterparts in northern Bosnia, according to DoD officials.

About 2,000 Russians, including airborne, mechanized and light armored forces, are slated to serve under U.S. operational command.  The main body of troops will arrive over the next several weeks.

Several countries are sending troops to serve in the U.S. peacekeeping sector. A Nordic brigade, for instance, includes 5,000 troops from Norway, Denmark, Finland, Sweden and Poland.

Turkey is providing a 1,300-strong reinforced infantry regiment with wheeled and light armored vehicle support. Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are contributing a 120-man unit.