Political Harmony or Pressure? Mandic and Spajic Echo Belgrade’s Tune, Critics Say

Montenegro’s political scene is once again stirring controversy as Andrija Mandic and Milojko Spajic face criticism for what opponents describe as aligning their political rhetoric with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic’s agenda. The two Montenegrin leaders, who have recently intensified cooperation on several national issues, are accused of “singing from Belgrade’s songbook” — a phrase now making waves across the country’s media and political circles.

The latest developments come amid renewed debate over Montenegro’s foreign policy direction and its balancing act between pro-European commitments and regional ties with Serbia. Mandic, a long-time advocate for closer relations with Belgrade, has openly supported deeper coordination between the two nations, while Spajic, who has built his political platform around economic reform and stability, appears increasingly open to dialogue that aligns with Serbian interests.

Critics argue that this growing political synchronization risks undermining Montenegro’s sovereignty and could jeopardize its EU integration process. Opposition parties warn that the country is sliding toward political dependency on Belgrade, particularly as Vucic continues to expand his influence in the region through both diplomacy and soft power.

Supporters of the two leaders, however, reject those claims, insisting that cooperation with Serbia is pragmatic and beneficial, especially in trade, infrastructure, and energy. They argue that Montenegro must maintain constructive relations with all its neighbors while preserving its independent decision-making.

Political analysts note that the Mandic–Spajic partnership reflects a broader struggle within Montenegro — one between nationalist sentiment, economic pragmatism, and European alignment. “The political duet may sound harmonious for now,” one commentator remarked, “but it plays a risky tune in a country still defining its own identity.”

As Montenegro moves through a period of fragile political balance, the question remains whether this apparent alignment with Belgrade’s policies represents strategic cooperation or quiet submission. For many citizens, it is a test of how far the country is willing to go to maintain stability — and at what cost to its independence.

Author: M.J