Montenegro president: ‘Negligent’ EU has allowed Russian influence in Balkans

Milo Djukanovic has accused the EU of being negligent towards the western Balkans (AP Photo/Risto Bozovic)

Montenegro’s pro-Western president has criticised the European Union for allegedly allowing Russia to spread its influence in the Balkans, saying on Tuesday that the volatile region has become a “platform” for anti-EU policies due to the bloc’s “negligence”.

President Milo Djukanovic spoke to the Associated Press as he prepares for a Sunday runoff election with a political newcomer who has the support of the Montenegrin government, which includes parties seeking closer relations with Serbia and Russia.