Two Russians indicted over Montenegro 'coup plot'

Montenegro's higher court has confirmed prosecution indictments against 14 people, including two Russians charged with masterminding a coup attempt aimed at preventing Montenegro from joining Nato.

Russian nationals Eduard Shishmakov and Vladimir Popov have been indicted with various criminal offences, terrorism and acts against the constitutional order of Montenegro, a statement issued by the court said.

The two alleged members of Russia's military spy agency had allegedly operated from Serbia.

They have returned to Russia and are beyond the reach of Montenegro's judiciary.

The other 12 suspects, mostly Serbs, allegedly planned on election day in October to take over parliament in the capital Podgorica and kill then-prime minister Milo Djukanovic.

Montenegro formally joined Nato on Monday despite strong Russian opposition.

- PA