Milosevic seeks leave for health checks in Russia

THE HAGUE - Former Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic asked the war crimes tribunal in The Hague to let him visit a Moscow clinic for medical checks during the court's winter recess.

Milosevic, who is charged with genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes in the Balkans in the 1990s, suffers from a heart condition and high blood pressure, which have repeatedly delayed the trial, now in its fourth year.

"So far I've been examined by two experts from that institute and I have full trust in it. It is a top-notch medical institution in Russia," Milosevic told the court. "I'm asking you to make it possible to me for health reasons."

Judges replied that as his request amounted to a provisional release it had to be made in writing, with a medical report on the condition to be treated in Russia and "adequate guarantees".

Under tribunal rules, accused may only be provisionally released if they can satisfy the court they will not pose a threat to victims or witnesses and that they will return to face trial.

While the court can set bail, it was not immediately clear how Milosevic would guarantee a return to the tribunal.

Later in the proceedings, the judges said they had decided to adjourn the trial until January 23 to give Milosevic more time to rest than just the court's three-week winter holiday.

Citing a medical report by three of his own doctors, the 64-year-old asked the court last month for a six-week break.

Milosevic's lawyer said the doctors -- from France, Russia and Serbia -- recommended full "psychological and physical" rest or there could be "serious consequences" for his health.

Milosevic is leading his own defence, and proceedings are limited to three days a week to reduce pressure on him. Last year the court assigned him two lawyers to try to prevent more delays, and they remain on standby in case his health worsens.

Last month, both Milosevic and UN prosecutors opposed an attempt by judges to speed up the marathon trial due to concerns over his health by separating off part of the indictment.

- REUTERS