The summit's objectives include reinforcing support for Ukraine amid Russian aggression and aligning efforts with Balkan states that, like Ukraine, are EU membership candidates, aiming for inclusion in the EU's next expansion phase.
Following discussions in Saudi Arabia on international backing for Ukraine's peace initiatives and mediation in prisoner exchanges with Russia, Zelenskyy arrived in Tirana. He praised Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama as a staunch ally of Ukraine and discussed the summit's focus on a collective journey towards Euro-Atlantic integration and support for Ukraine's quest for a just and enduring peace.
Albania, a NATO member since 2009 and an EU candidate, has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine. While the region largely backs Ukraine, with countries like Bulgaria providing substantial military assistance, Serbia has maintained a cautious stance, opting not to join EU sanctions against Russia despite its EU aspirations.
