“Four years ago, Russia launched its full-scale invasion, convinced that Ukraine would fall within days. Four years later, Ukraine remains steadfast. This resistance is not the result of an easy conflict or a low cost, but because the courage of the Ukrainian people has outweighed the fear imposed upon them. Russia anticipated surrender, yet encountered a nation united in dignity. It sought subjugation, but was met with resolute determination,” declared Minister Spiropali.

Minister Elisa Spiropali recalled her visit to Kyiv in January, where she met with President Volodymyr Zelensky and Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, emphasizing that the discussions focused not only on resilience, but also on reconstruction, reforms, and Ukraine’s European future.

She noted: ‘A country that plans for reconstruction in the midst of war is a country that believes in its tomorrow. I also met Ukrainian soldiers recovering from battle wounds. Their bodies bore the marks of war, yet their spirit remained unbroken—calm, resolute, and forward-looking.

She emphasized that Ukraine’s sacrifices are not merely about defending territory, but about upholding the fundamental principles that define Europe—freedom, sovereignty, human dignity, and justice.

Minister Spiropali stated: ‘Russia’s aggressive approach constitutes not only an attack on Ukraine, but also an attempt to erode the foundations of European security. It seeks to normalize the redrawing of borders by force, to divide us, and to exploit our fatigue as politics. We must not allow fatigue to be transformed into policy. Peace must remain our common objective.’

Minister Elisa Spiropali emphasized that while every responsible nation seeks peace, peace must not reward aggression or legitimize invasion. She underscored that Ukraine cannot be asked to compromise its sovereignty for temporary calm. Justice, she argued, is essential to making peace sustainable, and accountability for war crimes and violations of international humanitarian law is necessary—not out of vengeance, but out of respect for the law, the victims, and the future stability of Europe.

Minister Elisa Spiropali reaffirmed Albania’s unwavering support for Ukraine, stressing the importance of sovereignty and territorial integrity. She emphasized backing credible diplomatic efforts toward a comprehensive, just, and sustainable peace, with continued engagement from transatlantic partners. Spiropali underlined that peace must align with international law, safeguard Ukraine’s independence, and protect its European path.

Minister Elisa Spiropali highlighted the sacrifices of Ukrainian families and cities, stressing that history will judge this moment by the clarity and allegiance to principles in times of trial. She reaffirmed Albania’s solidarity with Ukraine, declaring support for its people, freedom, and right to choose their future. Spiropali emphasized that Ukraine’s resilience has inspired and strengthened Europe, concluding with confidence that Ukraine will endure, triumph, and never stand alone.

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