On August 22, an informal meeting was held in Athens, hosted by Greek prime minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The event was attended by the leaders of the Balkan states, as well as Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel. As a result of the meeting, was signed the Athens declaration in support of the territorial integrity and independence of Ukraine.
"Russia's invasion of Ukraine is a turning point for Europe, which creates a new level of awareness of common principles, unity and a common future within the EU," the declaration begins with these words.
"This is a critical time for the security, peace and stability of our European continent."
The declaration emphasises that the Western Balkans, Ukraine and Moldova are united by "a common European heritage, history and future defined by common opportunities and challenges."
