Montenegro Expels Russian Military Blogger Rîbar on National Security Grounds
Montenegro expelled the founder of the influential Russian military blog Rîbar and several other Russian citizens, citing national security. The expulsion follows their arrest and signals heightened scrutiny of Russian influence operations in the Western Balkans. This is a notable escalation in Montenegro's posture toward Russian-aligned actors, though the specific evidence behind the security designation remains undisclosed.
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Montenegro Expels Rybar Network Leader; Russia Threatens Retaliation
Montenegro has confirmed the arrest and expulsion of Rybar founder Mikhail Zvinchuk and several associates, citing national security and hybrid warfare concerns. This action has prompted a strong reaction from Russia, with Dmitri Medvedev threatening retaliatory detentions of Western nationals. The incident signifies a notable escalation in Montenegro's counter-intelligence posture against Russian influence and increased diplomatic friction between the two states.