Expressing the Sense of Congress Regarding the Execution-Style Murders of United States Citizens Ylli, Agron, and Mehmet Bytyqi in the Republic of Serbia in July 1999

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 45. I thank Representative Zeldin for championing this important resolution.

As the world focuses on the horrors of the war crimes being committed by Vladimir Putin's invading forces in Ukraine, we must not forget the victims of the past war crimes still awaiting justice.

Ylli, Agron, and Mehmet Bytyqi were three American brothers from New York State who are suspected of having been killed in July 1999 by Serbian authorities. After disappearing while in the custody of Serbian special police, they were executed, shot in the head with their hands tied behind their backs. Their bodies were later discovered in a mass grave at a training compound of the Serbian secret police.

Tragically, nearly 23 years later, there has still not been a full investigation into their deaths, and the Bytyqi brothers' murderers have yet to be brought to justice. This is unacceptable.

This case, among others, illustrates the continued need for Serbia to resolve outstanding war crimes investigations. Holding accountable those who committed and covered up the murder of the Bytyqi brothers is critical to continuing bilateral relations between the United States and Belgrade.

Therefore, I urge all of my colleagues to join me in supporting this resolution. Congress must be on the record calling on Serbian authorities to once and for all deliver justice for the Bytyqi brothers and their family.

Mr. Speaker, 23 years is too long for the Bytyqi brothers and their family to go without justice.

Seriously dealing with the past and bringing justice to all victims of war crimes committed in the wars that followed the breakup of the former Yugoslavia is needed to ensure reconciliation and peace throughout the region.

Mr. Zeldin reintroduced this bipartisan resolution last year. I urge Belgrade to commit to a proper investigation and full accountability for these three Americans so this resolution does not have to be reintroduced once again next Congress.

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