Sasa Bozic, a local entrepreneur in Banja Luka, Bosnia, has made a bold statement amidst the geopolitical tensions surrounding the Russia-Ukraine conflict by opening the “Putin Café.” The café features a mannequin resembling Russian President Vladimir Putin, towering over patrons in a city that has historically favored Russian influences over American ones.
As America condemns Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Bozic is planning another venture: a motel and restaurant complex called “Trump and Putin’s Place,” set to debut this summer. In his view, it’s not merely political but rather a savvy marketing move tailored to local preferences, as he contends that a “Biden Café” would be a flop given the prevailing sentiments of locals.
Banja Luka is at the heart of Republika Srpska, a region shaped by the aftermath of the ethnic conflicts of the 1990s. Many in this area continue to view America unfavorably, contrasting sharply with their appreciation for both Trump and Putin, which reflects a growing trend of ethnonationalism around the globe.
