Montenegro has officially decided to join NATO’s Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU) program, marking a significant step in the country’s alignment with Alliance efforts to support Ukrainian security forces. The Montenegrin Parliament approved the initiative on November 12, with 44 votes in favor, five against, and two abstentions, ending months of political hesitation. This move follows recommendations from Montenegro’s Defense and Security Council, which includes President Jakov Milatović, Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, and Parliament Speaker Andrija Mandić. Under the agreement, Montenegrin troops participating in NSATU will operate solely within NATO member states, focusing on training Ukrainian forces in a coordinated effort among Alliance members. Defense Minister Dragan Krapović emphasized that the decision reflects Montenegro’s commitments from last year’s NATO Summit in Washington, underscoring the country’s continued support for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia.

The decision, however, was not unanimously supported within the ruling coalition. The Democratic People’s Party (DNP) voiced strong opposition, cautioning that participation could strain Montenegro’s relations with Moscow. DNP MP Vladislav Bojović argued that involvement in foreign conflicts could carry significant diplomatic risks, suggesting that Montenegro should avoid entanglement in broader geopolitical disputes. Despite these concerns, the parliamentary vote confirmed Montenegro’s commitment to the NATO mission. NSATU is one of two initiatives Montenegro is set to join in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, with a second program coordinated by the European Union. This participation highlights Montenegro’s strategic alignment with Western defense initiatives, while Ukrainian forces continue to advance their capabilities, including joint production of interceptor drones with the United States. Montenegro’s involvement demonstrates its willingness to contribute to international security efforts, even amid potential diplomatic repercussions.

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