Montenegro’s Ministry of Education, Science, and Innovation warned that a transport blockade at the port of Bar and at fuel storage facilities could disrupt energy deliveries to educational institutions across the country.
The ministry said it had been informed by local fuel supplier Jugopetrol AD Kotor that, due to the ongoing protest, it would be unable to deliver heating fuel to schools and other educational facilities. The disruption comes at a critical time of year when heating systems must operate at full capacity.
“The new situation significantly complicates the functioning of educational institutions during this period, and any deviation from established procedures for maintaining school operations could directly affect the uninterrupted delivery of teaching and the legal obligation to provide continuous education for all students,” the ministry said in a statement.
The ministry appealed to all relevant parties to ensure that the educational process and the functioning of schools continue without interruption.
The Montenegrin Transporters Association has blocked cargo traffic at several border crossings, including the main entrance to the port of Bar, according to local media outlet Vijesti. The blockade is expected to last at least three days.
Around 20 trucks, all operated by transporters from the Bar region, have been stationed at the port’s Free Zone terminal near the old Voli supermarket. According to “Luka Bar,” there are no alternative routes for cargo traffic, effectively halting operations at the port during the protest. Private companies operating at the port, including Porto Adria, are also affected.
Trucks have also been parked near the town of Konatari, close to the Dobrakovo border crossing to Serbia. The protesters have called for changes in fuel excise rebates, faster VAT refunds, extended hours for customs and phytosanitary inspections, amendments to ETIAS, and recognition of work experience benefits.
The transport blockade is part of a broader regional protest involving truckers from Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro against the Schengen-area 90-day maximum stay restriction for professional drivers within six months.
Authorities have said the blockade does not affect passenger transport or trucks carrying medicines, animals, explosives, or weapons. Police are present to oversee the protests.