Montenegro hopes to join the EU in 2028. However, this target could be missed due to powerful political actors who prefer rapprochement with Serbia and the adoption of Russian-inspired laws.
The Western Balkans appear to be playing an increasingly important role in Russia's plans. Through its leverage in the region, Moscow is able to generate enough problems that require the attention of the West and diminish its ability to manage crises elsewhere - for example in the former Soviet Union.
