Rex Tillerson
U.S. Secretary of state Rex Tillerson called on the Senate to ratify the Protocol on the accession of Montenegro to NATO, noting that it “fully meets the interests of the United States.” This is stated in a letter to the Minister dated 7 March, according to Reuters.
According to Tillerson, the membership of Montenegro in NATO will contribute to reforms, trade, security, and positive impact on the stability of neighbouring countries.
The Agency notes that Moscow opposed the expansion of NATO. The delay in the ratification of the United States of the agreement on accession of Montenegro to NATO has raised questions about how will the administration of President Donald trump for a confrontation with Russia.
Director of the European cooperation Department of Russian foreign Ministry Andrey Kelin said that to speak about Montenegro as a NATO member — is ridiculous, because this country does not meet the criteria of the Alliance. According to him, they, in particular, imply that those who wish to join the Alliance of States should contribute to the security of the organization.
In may 2016 was signed the Protocol on accession of Montenegro to the block, then the country received observer status at the meetings of NATO. After ratification by all countries-participants it can become a full member of the organization. Montenegrin opposition proposes to hold a nationwide referendum. At the same time, the results of opinion polls show that society is split on the issue of NATO membership.