Information
Montenegro, once on a clear pro-European path under the long-standing leadership of President Milo Djukanovic, has seen significant political changes recently. Djukanovic, who led the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) and maintained a pro-Western stance, was voted out of office in April 2023. The new political landscape features a coalition government led by Prime Minister Milojko Spajic from the centrist Europe Now Alliance, which includes far-right, pro-Serbia, and pro-Russia parties. The inclusion of these parties, led by figures such as Andrija Mandic and Milan Knezevic, has raised concerns about Montenegro’s commitment to EU integration, NATO membership, and its overall Western orientation.
The involvement of these nationalist and pro-Russia figures has sparked domestic and international concern. Critics, including Montenegrin President Jakov Milatovic and opposition leader Andrija Nikolic, argue that the new government is heavily influenced by Serbia and Russia, potentially threatening Montenegro’s sovereignty and pro-Western policies. The US and Croatia have expressed their disapproval, with the latter declaring several Montenegrin politician’s persona non grata due to actions that strain bilateral relations. Observers worry that this political shift may lead Montenegro away from its previous path toward EU membership and closer ties with NATO, posing a significant risk to the country’s foreign policy direction and stability.
Source: DW
So what
This is one to watch. Russia is using every move in its playbook to gain influence in Europe at the moment, and opportunities like this will likely see them capitalise on the situation. There is additional pressure in the Balkans due to their turbulent history, which sees governments needing to walk a tightrope of ethnic tensions. While it is unclear if the current risks will culminate, it is highly likely there will be a battle for influence over the medium term.
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