Statement by Ambassador Eglantina Gjermeni, Permanent Representative of Albania

Special meeting of the Permanent Council on Ukraine

15 January 2026, Vienna

Albania thanks Switzerland for convening this Special Meeting of the Permanent Council and condemns in the strongest terms the latest attacks by the Russian Federation against Ukraine. As stated by our Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, the large-scale use of drones and missiles against civilians and critical energy infrastructure, particularly during extreme winter conditions, represents an act of brutality that the international community cannot overlook.

These attacks have left countless civilians without heat, electricity, and security, deliberately deepening human suffering. They also constitute a dangerous escalation, undermining the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the protection of civilians that lie at the core of the OSCE’s commitments. The targeting of energy infrastructure during winter only amplifies the humanitarian consequences of this war.

Albania reiterates its unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and right to live in peace within its internationally recognized borders. We support all serious efforts aimed at ending this war, and we believe that any sustainable peace must be grounded in respect for these principles and in the protection of civilian lives.

To show this support, Minister Spiropali is visiting Kyiv today.

There must be no pauses, no fatigue, and no complacency. Albania joins partners in urging the Russian Federation to cease its attacks, de-escalate, and bring this war to an end.