Montenegrin political analyst Danilo Kalezić has warned that structures linked to Russia in Montenegro may be attempting to orchestrate the arrest of former president Milo Đukanović, a scenario he says could have major political consequences for the country.
Allegations about political influence
In an interview with regional media, Kalezić claimed that Democrats of Montenegro, led by Deputy Prime Minister Aleksa Bečić, represents what he described as the largest security risk to the state.
He alleged that the party maintains close ties with Moscow and Belgrade, and warned that if it continues to control key security institutions—such as the Interior Ministry, Defense Ministry, police, and the National Security Agency—the arrest of Đukanović could become a reality.
“Superfinale” scenario
According to Kalezić, when political actors speak about a “superfinale,” they are referring to the potential arrest of Đukanović.
“A photo of him in handcuffs would be the climax of a long campaign aimed at criminalizing Montenegro’s independence,” he said.
Symbolic impact
Kalezić stressed that such a move would have not only a legal dimension but also a symbolic one, because Đukanović is widely seen as a central figure behind several key milestones in Montenegro’s modern history.
These include:
- The Montenegrin independence referendum, which led to independence from Serbia
- The country’s membership in NATO
- Montenegro’s broader pro-Western political orientation
He argued that arresting Đukanović would be an attempt to delegitimize the project of an independent Montenegrin state.
“If the symbol of that process is declared criminal, then independence itself is portrayed as a criminal project,” Kalezić said.
Warning about regional influence
The analyst added that such a scenario could form part of a broader strategy of Russian influence in the Balkans, suggesting that the reaction of Western partners could play a decisive role in preventing it.
“A clear stance from Western partners, who understand what such a political adventure could produce, may stop the plans of Russian agents in Montenegro,” Kalezić concluded.
