Montenegro and U.S. Mark 120 Years of Diplomatic Relations, Affirming Strategic Partnership

A Century Plus of Enduring Partnership

Montenegro and the United States formally acknowledged 120 years of diplomatic relations on January 26, 2026, marking a significant milestone in their enduring strategic partnership. This observance follows a celebratory event held in November 2025 at the Willard InterContinental Hotel in Washington, D.C., which gathered over 250 guests, including senior U.S. officials, members of Congress, military leaders, and representatives of the Montenegrin diaspora.

The initial bilateral diplomatic relations between the two nations were established on October 30, 1905. Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović reaffirmed his nation's commitment to the U.S. partnership, emphasizing the importance of cooperation across various sectors, including defense, economy, energy, and innovation. Zeljko Radulovic, Defense Attaché of Montenegro to the United States, described the anniversary as 'not only viewed as a moment of historical reflection, but as a starting point for a new chapter of cooperation focused on trust and shared responsibility within the transatlantic community'.

Deepening Military Cooperation and Security

Since regaining independence in 2006, Montenegro has cultivated a robust defense partnership with the United States. This cooperation encompasses a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing Montenegro's defense capabilities and interoperability with NATO forces. Key areas of collaboration include:

• Joint training and exercises
• Cyber defense initiatives
• Educational opportunities for Montenegrin military personnel

A cornerstone of this military alliance is the State Partnership Program (SPP) with the Maine National Guard, which is currently in its 20th year. The U.S. Army Security Assistance Command (USASAC) has also played a crucial role in supporting Montenegro's NATO operational readiness through Foreign Military Sales (FMS). This has included the provision of essential equipment such as Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTV), cyber and communications equipment, and rapid reaction force gear, with the latest JLTVs delivered in July 2025.

Discussions in October 2024 between Brigadier General Zoran Lazarević, Chief of the General Staff of the Army of Montenegro, and U.S. Army Brigadier General Chris McKinney, U.S. European Command's Deputy Director for partnering and security cooperation, further underscored the commitment to strengthening military cooperation, regional stability, joint military exercises, training, and operational interoperability.

Future Engagements: Hosting Defender Europe 27

Looking ahead, Montenegro is set to host the Concept Development Conference for Defender Europe 27 in January 2027. This significant event is viewed as an important recognition of Montenegro's credibility and responsibility within NATO, as well as a valuable opportunity to further strengthen its interoperability and visibility within the Alliance.

Broader Strategic Alignment and Economic Ties

Beyond defense, the strategic partnership extends to economic collaboration, focusing on strengthening bilateral trade and investment, and supporting regional economic initiatives. The U.S. has also consistently supported Montenegro's aspirations for European Union accession, a goal reaffirmed by President Milatović, who expressed hopes for Montenegro to join the EU by 2028.