Spokesperson of the U.S. Department of State Mark Toner has said that the statements denying genocide in Srebrenica are counterproductive to promoting stability and reconciliation in the region.

“Genocide in Srebrenica is not a subjective determination - it is a defined criminal act which the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia has confirmed in final and binding verdicts in multiple cases,” reads a statement by the Department of State.

Toner said that the International Court of Justice also has concluded that genocide occurred in Srebrenica, and that this cannot be denied. “President Nikolic has an opportunity to set a constructive tone within the region, but such unfounded statements about Srebrenica and other war crimes are counterproductive to promoting stability and reconciliation in the region,” the statement adds.

Toner also called on all parties to take responsible actions in support of cooperation and reconciliation. In an interview with Radio Television of Montenegro, broadcast on May 31, Nikolic said that it is difficult to prove before a court that an event qualifies as genocide. "There was no genocide in Srebrenica. A great crime happened in Srebrenica that was committed by some members of the Serb people, who should be found, tried and punished," said Nikolic.