Every Monday, the CERESE publishes assessment of the previous week’s news by the Research Trainees:

I like that Vladimir Putin is revising Russia’s nuclear doctrine. The Russian President rejected the use of nuclear weapons at a critical juncture for Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The revision of Russia’s nuclear doctrine could signal a strategic realignment that promotes restraint against escalation, potentially reducing the likelihood of a catastrophic nuclear conflict. By reaffirming that Russia does not wish to use nuclear weapons, it may reassure both domestic and international audiences that nuclear weapons are a deterrent rather than a first-strike option. This could stabilize tensions during the ongoing war in Ukraine, encouraging diplomatic solutions.

I dislike the loss of the majority of the ruling party in the municipal elections of Podgorica. The results in Montenegro’s capital significantly affected the government’s sovereignty, as the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS), now in opposition, won the most votes, but did not secure the majority needed to form one-party dominance. Additionally, DPS alleged that thousands of dual voters from Serbia and Republika Srpska illegally participated in the election, influencing the result in favor of the governing party. This huge breach of government stability could hinder Montenegro’s EU accession process.

The aforementioned opinions are those of their respective authors and they do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the Institute of International Relations or its Researchers.