Authorities of Montenegro banned broadcasting of the Russian state media Russia Today and Sputnik. Thus, Podgorica joined the EU sanctions imposed against Moscow because of the war with Ukraine. Montenegro is not part of the EU, but hopes to join.
The European Union banned Russia Today and Sputnik in March. Brussels then said that the two publications systematically manipulated information and engaged in disinformation around Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The sanctions mean that local operators will be prohibited from broadcasting and distributing any RT and Sputnik content. The ban concerns, among other things, the use of media materials by local telecom operators and Internet providers.
Archyde.com draws attention to the fact that many ethnic Serbs live in Montenegro, many of whom adhere to pro-Russian views. At the same time, most Montenegrins see the future of the country in the European Union.
The economy of Montenegro is highly dependent on tourism – the country was actively visited by Russian and Ukrainian tourists. Many Russians own real estate and yachts in the country.
Ties between the two countries have remained complex for several years. In 2014, Montenegro joined the sanctions against Russia following Moscow’s annexation of Crimea.
In 2016, Podgorica accused Moscow of facilitating a coup attempt in the country, which, according to experts, aimed to prevent Montenegro from joining NATO.
Against the backdrop of Russia’s fighting with Ukraine, Montenegro expelled a Russian diplomat in March. Moscow responded in kind.