Statement by Ambassador H.E. Eglantina Gjermeni,

Permanent Representative of Albania to International Organizations in Vienna,

99th Joint Meeting of the Forum for Security and Cooperation with the Permanent Council

26 May 2026, Vienna

Thank you, Mr. Chair,

As stated most recently also by the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania, Ferit Hoxha, Albania strongly condemns yet another brutal and indiscriminate large-scale ballistic missile and drone attack launched in the past days by Russia against civilian targets in Ukraine, in total disregard for human life and basic human decency.

This time, the residential complex where the Ambassador of Albania to Ukraine resides in Kyiv was struck, putting his life at serious risk. This is unacceptable! Targeting or endangering civilian areas and diplomatic personnel represents a grave escalation and another stark reminder of the human cost of Russia’s continued aggression. The Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Albania has been summoned for explanations.

This war of choice has lasted for far too long. For more than four years since its illegal full-scale invasion, Russia has relentlessly targeted energy infrastructure, schools, hospitals, and homes across Ukraine.

Yet, it has failed to break the courage, determination, resilience, and strength of the Ukrainian people. Russia is not winning; it is only killing, destroying, and inflicting widespread devastation and suffering.

We reiterate our call on Russia to immediately cease these attacks, put an end to the war against Ukraine, fully abide by international law, and return to negotiations.

Albania will continue to stand firmly with Ukraine and reiterates its unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Those responsible for these attacks must be held accountable.

Mr. Chair,

Supporting Ukraine remains a core task for the OSCE. As Chair of the OSCE Human Dimension Committee, Albania will continue ensure that the Committee addresses the implications that the war has on our commitments in the third dimension.

Thank you!