The US Senate has ratified Montenegro’s admission into the NATO alliance, an event many lawmakers view through the lens of a deepening struggle between Western nations and Russia, according to Voice of America.

The United States was one of three NATO members yet to formally approve the Balkan nation as the newest member of the alliance.

Defenders of NATO expansion noted that Montenegro already has done much in support of the United States and the broader alliance.

Senators approved the ratification by a vote of 97-2. Only Kentucky Republican Rand Paul and Utah Republican Mike Lee voted no. Paul argued that, as a NATO member, Montenegro would fall under America’s security blanket while providing little in return.