The Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed concern over recent statements from Montenegro regarding its support for Kosovo’s independence and active lobbying for Kosovo’s membership in international organizations.
This comes after Montenegrin Foreign Minister Ervin Ibrahimović stated in an interview with national broadcaster RTV Montenegro that Montenegro will support Kosovo’s accession to international bodies:
“Montenegro will offer clear support when the question arises about Kosovo joining the European Union or the Council of Europe,” Ibrahimović said.
Although some parties within Montenegro’s governing coalition do not recognize Kosovo’s independence, Ibrahimović stated he believes this stance will not jeopardize the coalition, citing Montenegro’s clearly defined foreign policy priorities.
“Montenegro is recognized by international partners as a country that nurtures good neighborly relations. Therefore, we will support our friendly state, Kosovo, because its EU membership is a priority of our foreign policy and does not conflict with our national stance,” he emphasized.
In response, the Serbian Foreign Ministry described Ibrahimović’s statements as “contrary to international law, the UN Charter, and good neighborly relations.” In an official statement, Serbia called on all neighboring countries—including Montenegro—to refrain from statements or actions that could “escalate tensions” and urged efforts to build mutual trust:
“We believe it is essential to focus on preserving positive relations, rather than supporting anti-Serb activities, further divisions, and conflicts,” the statement read.
Montenegro recognized Kosovo’s independence in 2008, under the leadership of the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) led by Milo Đukanović. That move sparked protests and clashes, especially among the then-opposition, led by the pro-Serb and pro-Russian Democratic Front (DF), which is now part of the ruling coalition.
Although the Democratic Front has since dissolved, its former constituent parties still hold significant power: two deputy prime minister positions and three ministries. Andrija Mandić, a DF leader closely aligned with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, is now Speaker of the Montenegrin Parliament.
The former DF parties continue to push for revoking Kosovo’s recognition, lifting sanctions on Russia, and even withdrawing Montenegro from NATO. They claim Kosovo is “occupied Serbian territory” and refer to it as a “quasi-state.”
Kosovo submitted its application for membership in the Council of Europe in May 2022.
The ruling party in Montenegro is currently the Europe Now Movement, led by Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, in coalition with the Democrats, former DF parties, the Bosniak Party, and the Albanian Forum.
