MOSCOW – Montenegrin citizens will need visas to enter Russia from 1 November, in a reciprocal measure responding to Podgorica’s decision to introduce visas from Russian nationals. Montenegrin citizens will also have to obtain visas to travel to Russia,” Zakharova said, arguing that Podgorica’s decision “clearly harms Montenegro’s interests”, Pobjeda reports.
She said Montenegro’s closer ties with the EU were undermining its longstanding relations with Russia.
Zakharova argued that the economic consequences of introducing visas for Russian citizens were being overlooked. She predicted that the measures would reduce tourist arrivals from Russia, harm Montenegrin businesses and worsen the country’s investment climate.
“It is pointless for the Montenegrin authorities to expect compensation from Brussels for the inevitable losses,” Zakharova said. She also claimed that the European integration process no longer allowed prospective members to retain a neutral status.
“We hope that the countries of the Western Balkans will recognise these changes in the EU, analyse them and clearly understand the consequences of European integration for their own national interests and the well-being of their citizens,” she added.
In late July, Montenegro decided to introduce visa requirements for citizens of Russia, Belarus, Turkey, China and Saudi Arabia. Podgorica aligns with EU visa policy, an obligation under negotiating Chapter 24, which covers justice, freedom and security.
