Montenegro is moving in the right direction in its fight against organized crime and corruption while also reducing Russian influence, according to Peter McCoy, the nominee to become the next U.S. ambassador to the Balkan nation.
Speaking during his confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, McCoy described Montenegro as a dependable NATO ally and pointed to political changes following the election of a new president and prime minister in 2023.
McCoy acknowledged that corruption and organized crime remain serious challenges. Montenegro’s law enforcement institutions employ about 3,300 people, which he described as a relatively small workforce responsible for protecting the country.
He said Montenegrin officials are committed to improving criminal prosecutions and tackling corruption but still need assistance, guidance and institutional support. McCoy suggested that additional FBI or Drug Enforcement Administration agents could help strengthen those efforts, alongside an existing State Department program targeting transnational organized crime and drug trafficking.
The hearing also addressed Russia’s long-standing attempts to influence Montenegro’s politics, society and culture. Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen noted allegations that Russian intelligence services supported the failed 2016 coup attempt aimed at preventing Montenegro from joining NATO.
McCoy said Montenegro remained firm despite pressure from Moscow and ultimately became a NATO member in 2017. He cited figures indicating that Russian financial influence in the country has declined by as much as 75% since then. Montenegro has also provided strong support to Ukraine, he said.
However, McCoy cautioned that foreign interference and influence operations remain a threat. If confirmed, he said countering those efforts would be one of his priorities.
Lawmakers also discussed an agreement designed to expand opportunities for American companies in Montenegro. McCoy said the deal could encourage U.S. participation in energy, infrastructure, transportation and employment projects.
He specifically highlighted the Adriatic-Ionian Corridor, saying future projects connected to the route could generate economic activity worth billions of dollars.
McCoy, a former federal prosecutor, said his experience working with state and federal law enforcement agencies would help him support Montenegro’s institutional reforms if the Senate confirms his nomination.
