Mr. Chair,

Albania condemns in the strongest terms the brutal missile attack by the Russian Federation on the city of Krivyi Rih on April 4th, which claimed the lives of 20 innocent civilians, including 9 children, and injured dozens more. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims, to the people of Ukraine, and to our Ukrainian colleagues present here today.

This was not an accident, nor an isolated incident—it is part of a tragic and deliberate pattern of violence against civilians that has defined Russia’s war of aggression from the very beginning. Striking residential neighborhoods, playgrounds, and restaurants with ballistic missiles is not warfare—it is terror.

Albania stands firmly with Ukraine. We reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. The Ukrainian people have the right to determine their own future—free from coercion, free from occupation, and free from the threat of violence.

Russia must end its aggression, respect international law, and choose the path of peace.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.