Despite the multiple fires this year, Montenegro has not sought assistance from NATO, as confirmed by officials at the Alliance headquarters in Brussels.

NATO has the Euro-Atlantic Center for Consignment Response (EADRCC), which serves as a mechanism for addressing civilian emergencies like natural disasters, according to sources in Brussels.

“To date, we have not received any requests for assistance from Montenegrin authorities. We direct you to further remarks,” a NATO representative commented.

The Ministry of the Interior (MUP) informed RSE that there was no necessity to seek international assistance.

“Despite differing opinions, the fires that have impacted Montenegro this year have not been of intensity that would necessitate external support from local or national authorities.”

They further stated that this conclusion is supported by the fact that there have been no serious injuries among those involved in the protection and rescue operations, and that all residential structures at risk from the fire have been safeguarded.

They also clarified that the decision to request international assistance is made by the Government, following a proposal from the Ministry.

This proposal must outline the reasons for the request, the capacities being sought, the means through which help is required, as well as the logistical and financial details.

Prime Minister Milojko Spajic indicated on August 6 that the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Army, despite extensive firefighting efforts, are in need of assistance.

Additionally, he announced plans to procure Canader aircraft.

“The MUP has already repaired one aircraft, and will soon fix two more older, smaller firefighting planes. The addition of the Canaders will undoubtedly be significant for them!” concluded the Prime Minister.

On August 9, President of Montenegro, Jakov Milatović, requested international partners to donate a fire truck specially designed for challenging terrains and complex high-altitude operations.

In the meantime, the army has been working tirelessly, utilizing Bell 412 helicopters, which were acquired in 2018 as part of Montenegro’s efforts to enhance its capabilities within NATO.

During the summer of 2017, NATO and its allies assisted Montenegro in combating wildfires by deploying aircraft to aid in firefighting efforts.

At that time, the Montenegrin authorities requested assistance from the Alliance, specifically from Canada, through the EADRCC.

Montenegro has sought and received international aid from NATO during the devastating floods in December 2010 and the heavy snowfall in February two years later, even before becoming a member of the Alliance.

In the case of the Siberian wave in 2012, Montenegro was the first to reach out for assistance to neighboring Croatia.

Montenegro has been a member of NATO since 2017.

The Montenegrin rescue service employs 785 personnel, with 636 dedicated to operational duties and the remainder in administration. The fleet includes 242 vehicles, of which 152 are specifically for fire and rescue operations.