Montenegro is requesting increased EU assistance in combating Russian disinformation as it advances toward EU membership, which it aims to achieve by 2028. President Jakov Milatović emphasized the daily challenge of disinformation and called for proactive EU measures, citing threats from third countries. Montenegro, which applied for EU membership in 2008 and gained candidate status in 2010, has made progress by closing several accession chapters, but faces obstacles such as regional tensions and skepticism within the EU. Meanwhile, Montenegro, along with Albania, Moldova, and North Macedonia, has joined the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), enabling faster and cheaper cross-border transactions. This move is seen as a significant step toward economic integration with the EU, with benefits including cost savings and improved trade. The EU has allocated funding to these countries, recognizing their reforms and progress. Moldova and Montenegro have expressed strong support for SEPA, highlighting its importance for economic development and closer integration with European markets.