Danish politician regrets tour for controversial Montenegrin figure

Danish People's Party chairman Morten Messerschmidt expressed regret over a recent tour he provided to Vladislav Dajković, a Montenegrin politician known for his pro-Russian and anti-NATO stance. Messerschmidt stated that he was unaware of Dajković's political positions when he agreed to show him around Christiansborg, the Danish Parliament.

“

It is not a person who has a prominent role, and therefore I do not think it is my job to do anything so that people become part of some media circus.

Messerschmidt's meeting with Dajković, founder of Montenegro's "only pro-Russian and anti-NATO party" Slobodna Crna Gora, drew criticism from other politicians. In his defense, Messerschmidt initially claimed ignorance of Dajković's views. He later conceded that he should have conducted a background check on his guest prior to the meeting. The Danish People's Party chairman also emphasized that his party strongly opposes Russian President Vladimir Putin.

When questioned about potential party members associating with pro-Russian groups in the Balkans, Messerschmidt stated he would be concerned if such associations existed but had no reason to believe they did. He declined to identify the ordinary party member who initially connected Dajković with the Danish People's Party, deeming it inappropriate to involve the individual in a media frenzy. Messerschmidt suggested that the press could investigate the nature of the relationship between the member and Dajković if they deemed it relevant.

“

If there is that, then I would be. But I have had no reason to assume so.

Following the controversial tour, Dajković posted a video on Instagram showing Messerschmidt saying "go win" at the end of the visit. Dajković actively campaigns against Montenegro's sanctions on Russia, which he calls "shameful." He also opposes the country's EU accession process and advocates for withdrawal from NATO.

“

It must be your job as the press to dig that up if you think it is relevant. That is, if they are related or not related, how would I know?