'He did it for us': US soldier recalls Jesse Jackson's efforts to free him and two other POWs

BBC News - WorldEN 4 min read 100% complete February 18, 2026 at 01:23 AM

AI Summary

medium article 4 min

In March 1999, during the Kosovo War, US Army Sergeant Andrew Ramirez and two other soldiers were captured by Yugoslav forces near the Macedonian border. Reverend Jesse Jackson, against the wishes of the Clinton administration, spearheaded an effort to secure their release. Jackson, known for his "private diplomacy," partnered with Illinois Representative Rod Blagojevich to gain access to the prisoners. Despite warnings of danger, Jackson and his delegation traveled to Belgrade in late April 1999, where they met with Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic. Ramirez recalls Jackson's efforts as crucial to securing his and his fellow soldiers' freedom after being held captive for over a month.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

White House ×240% NATO 50% Macedonia 50% Kosovo ×260% Christopher Stone 60% Steven Gonzales 60% United States ×470% Slobodan Milosevic ×270% Rod Blagojevich ×470% Yugoslavia ×370% Andrew Ramirez ×480% Jesse Jackson ×890%

Keywords

jesse jackson 100% pows 90% prisoner release 80% us soldiers 80% yugoslavia 70% kosovo war 70% private diplomacy 60% slobodan milosevic 60% rod blagojevich 50% clinton administration 50%