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NATO: Montenegro Membership Certain Despite Russia Objection

by Associated Press

   PODGORICA, MONTENEGRO --

   NATO's deputy chief says Montenegro's membership in the Western
   military alliance is progressing smoothly despite strong opposition
   from Russia.
   NATO Deputy Secretary-General Rose Gottemoeller says that she expects
   that the tiny Balkan country will become a member in spring 2017 after
   all 28 NATO member states and Montenegro ratify the agreement in their
   parliaments.

   Gottemoeller said Thursday in Montenegro that "I think your membership
   in NATO is moving forward smoothly."
   Montenegro has been invited to join NATO despite strong opposition from
   its traditional Slavic ally Russia.
   Montenegrin officials have accused Russia of standing behind an alleged
   coup on election day in October to topple the pro-Western government
   because of its NATO bid.