Zelensky visits Tirana for regional summit amid ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict
Albania's Foreign Minister praises Zelensky's visit as a pivotal moment for bilateral ties, while the Ukrainian President seeks backing in Southeast Europe and Saudi Arabia amid Russia's military advances
Albania's Foreign Minister Igli Hasani hailed the arrival of Ukrainian President Zelensky in Tirana as a crucial moment for strengthening bilateral relations and showing solidarity with Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression.
Zelensky has been on a global tour in recent weeks, seeking support for Ukraine as its armed forces face severe ammunition shortages and confront Russia's military advances.
During his visit to Tirana on Wednesday for the "Ukraine-Southeast Europe Summit," Zelensky is scheduled to meet with various regional leaders.
Albania, a NATO member since 2009, has voiced strong support for Ukraine but has largely refrained from public statements about providing arms to Kyiv.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during a visit to Albania earlier this month, commended Tirana's support for Ukraine.
"It was among the first countries to send military assistance to Ukraine following Russian aggression – weapons, ammunition, and mine-resistant vehicles –and currently ranks among the top ten per capita in its support for Ukraine and security aid," Blinken noted.
Before he visited Tirana, President Zelensky stopped in Saudi Arabia, advocating for his peace plan and discussing the potential exchange of prisoners of war.
Saudi Arabia, maintaining diplomatic ties with both Russia and Ukraine, has previously mediated between the conflicting parties, including a September 2022 agreement resulting in the release of over 200 captive Ukrainians.
Source: Newsroom
