President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Elisa Spiropali, Albania’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
“You have come at a very challenging time for Ukraine and for our people. In these cold winter days, Russia is increasing the number of strikes, and I believe you can feel this. But your visit is a strong signal of support. We are very grateful to Albania for its support from the very beginning of this war,” the Head of State noted.
Elisa Spiropali stressed that Russian strikes on critical infrastructure and civilians are a heinous act of war.
“We support peace efforts. It must be a just and lasting peace with security guarantees for Ukraine – one that respects the sacrifice of the Ukrainian people over these four years,” she said.
The President informed her about diplomatic efforts with the American team and partners within the Coalition of the Willing to achieve a dignified peace.
In addition, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Elisa Spiropali discussed strengthening sanctions against Russia. The Minister emphasized that sanctions remain a critically important tool for undermining Russia’s ability to continue the war.
The meeting also addressed the integration of Ukraine and Albania into the European Union, which is a shared goal of both countries.
Special attention was paid to defense cooperation and joint production. The Minister confirmed continued cooperation on the rehabilitation of Ukrainian warriors and the provision of equipment for rehabilitation centers. During her visit to Ukraine, Elisa Spiropali will visit a hospital where defenders are recovering from injuries. She also highlighted Albania’s possible participation in the PURL initiative this year.
The Head of State thanked Albania’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs for supporting Ukraine and awarded Elisa Spiropali the Order of Princess Olga, I class.