The Speaker of the Albanian Parliament, Elisa Spiropali, participated this Wednesday in the “Southeast Europe – Ukraine” Summit held in the city of Odesa, Ukraine.

In her speech during the summit proceedings, Spiropali reaffirmed Albania’s unwavering support for Ukraine, describing Russia’s aggression as a severe blow to the international order and democratic values.

“Albania stands with Ukraine in this just and heroic war to defend its independence, democracy, and people,” said Spiropali, emphasizing the steadfast solidarity with Ukraine.

She stated that unwavering political, military, and humanitarian support must continue for Ukraine, and that this moment should be used to renew efforts for a united, free, and peaceful Europe.

Before the summit proceedings began, participants laid wreaths at the Memorial of the Fallen in Ukraine’s war— a symbolic gesture of respect for the victims of the aggression.

Full Speech

“I have the honor and solemn responsibility to address you today here in Odesa—a city whose name has become a symbol of courage and resilience.

We have gathered at a moment of extraordinary importance. The Ukraine–Southeast Europe Summit is not merely another entry in the diplomatic calendar. It is a point of convergence—a collective reaffirmation of our shared values: peace, sovereignty, and regional stability. Above all, we are here to express our unwavering solidarity with Ukraine in its just and heroic fight to defend its independence, democracy, and people.

As a representative of a small but resilient nation, one that knows the price of freedom and the value of peace, I am here to reaffirm Albania’s full support for Ukraine. We stand by you because we deeply believe in the principles that unite us—principles now under attack by Russia’s unprovoked and brutal aggression.

We cannot remain indifferent to the reality before us. This war—now in its third year—has shaken the foundations of the international order. It casts a long and dark shadow over Europe, extending far beyond Ukraine’s borders. It threatens not just the future of a sovereign state but the very integrity of the rule-based international system.

Russia’s aggression is more than a violation of Ukraine’s territorial integrity. It is an attack on the fundamental principles of international law. It is a challenge to democracy, human dignity, and every nation’s right—large or small—to determine its own fate.

Despite immense suffering and destruction, the Ukrainian people have stood with unmatched courage. Their resilience in the face of atrocities has inspired the world. Cities may have been reduced to rubble, lives irreversibly changed, and millions forced to flee—but the Ukrainian spirit remains unbroken. On the contrary, it shines brighter than ever, lighting the way for all who believe in freedom.

We cannot turn a blind eye to these crimes. Russia must be held accountable—for every shell, every war crime, every life lost. Silence is complicity, and the world cannot afford to remain silent.

Ukraine’s war is a test of our collective conscience. It is a test of whether we are truly willing to defend the values we claim to cherish. And it is a test we cannot afford to fail—not only for Ukraine but for the future of peace in Europe and for the generations to come.

We, in Southeast Europe, understand this deeply. Many of our countries have experienced conflict, oppression, and occupation. We know what it means to fight for the right to live in peace, to choose our future, and to be part of a community of free nations. That’s why we must do more.

First, we must continue our unwavering political, military, and humanitarian support for Ukraine.

Second, we must confront the other threats that accompany this war—disinformation, cyberattacks, and efforts to destabilize our democracies from within.

Third, we must seize this moment to recommit ourselves to the Europe we want to build—a united, free, and peaceful Europe. Because peace is not something that is given. It is a responsibility. It must be earned, defended, and renewed.

Albania is fully committed to this engagement. We have supported Ukraine through humanitarian aid, the adoption of sanctions, and vocal advocacy for its European path. We believe Ukraine belongs in the European Union, and we will continue to be a strong voice in support of its integration.

Dear friends,
Today I wish not only to express words of solidarity, but to make a promise: Albania stands with Ukraine—today, tomorrow, and for as long as it takes. Your fight is our fight. Your hope is our hope. Your future is our shared future.

May peace, justice, and freedom return soon to Ukraine.
Thank you!” said Spiropali.