On Monday (16 December 2024) NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte welcomed Montenegro's Prime Minister Milojko Spajić to NATO Headquarters. The Secretary General thanked the Prime Minister for his country's support to NATO's military presence in Latvia and Bulgaria, its peacekeeping mission in Kosovo and training mission in Iraq. He also praised Montenegro's commitment to spend 2% of GDP on defence this year.
The Secretary General expressed gratitude for Montenegro's support to Ukraine, including the delivery of military equipment and contributions to NATO's comprehensive assistance package. He underscored the urgency of increased support as Ukraine faces a challenging winter, with ongoing attacks from Russia targeting civilians and critical infrastructure. "Ukraine needs our urgent support," said Secretary General Rutte. "All Allies must deliver on the commitments made at the Washington Summit," he added.
The two leaders discussed the security situation in the Western Balkans and the threats posed by Russia's malign activities on NATO territory. Mr Rutte noted Montenegro's efforts to counter Russia's malign threats, including being the first recipient of a NATO Counter Hybrid Support Team and joining the NATO Rapid Response Group. He also reaffirmed NATO's commitment to the stability of the region.
