In response to inquiries regarding the timing of the Security and Defense Council session and the announcement of General Zoran Lazarević’s successor, Milatović indicated that he anticipates the session will occur in early June, with Darko Vuković, the captain of a battleship, as his preferred candidate.

Milatović emphasized that Vuković was dismissed by the previous administration but is a well-educated officer with international training and proficiency in multiple foreign languages.

When asked if Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would visit Montenegro, Milatović acknowledged the interest, noting May 15 as a potential date, but mentioned that discussions between Russia and Ukraine were also scheduled in Turkey for that day.

He further added that Saturday was under consideration, though Prime Minister Milojko Spajić would not be able to attend due to previous commitments preventing him from signing the security agreements.

The agreement addresses support in the event of an armed conflict, investment in the defense sector, intelligence-sharing, and the reconstruction of war-affected Ukraine. It resembles agreements made by around thirty other nations, primarily NATO allies.

What does the agreement entail?

Both countries have agreed to engage in consultations should there be a significant escalation in the ongoing aggression or any future armed attacks by Russia on Ukraine, as reported by Radio Free Europe.

“Montenegro will offer assistance to Ukraine… which may encompass swift and sustained political, security, military, humanitarian, and economic support; establishing an understanding on sanctions against the Russian Federation…”

Montenegro fully aligns with European sanctions on Russia.

The agreement also outlines cooperation in the defense sector, aimed at “mutually beneficial commercial and political interests.”

“Montenegro will explore options for providing financial aid aimed at enhancing the Ukrainian defense sector, including investment in capacity building, and the procurement of munitions and other defense products for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.” The document stresses that Russia must assume legal responsibility for the war as this could deter potential future assaults.

Both nations share the belief in the establishment of a tribunal to hold accountable those responsible for the aggression against Ukraine.

Besides legal accountability, Russia is expected to bear financial responsibility for the prolonged reconstruction of Ukraine stemming from the damages inflicted.

“Russian state assets within Montenegro, in line with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy, will be frozen until Russia compensates for the damage, losses, and injuries it has caused,” the Agreement text stipulates.

One specific action outlined in the agreement is cooperation on the rebuilding of Ukraine.

Montenegrin officials will select a city or area to partner with for its reconstruction or reform initiatives.

It has been decided that Borodjanka would be the selected area.

This city, situated about 60 kilometers from Kiev, endured significant destruction at the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Both countries are also committed to enhancing intelligence and counterintelligence collaboration to thwart subversive actions from Russia and other hostile forces.

They agree to combat harmful propaganda and misinformation campaigns that threaten national security.

News