Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has addressed concerns regarding potential Russian aggression in Europe. Speaking at the Berlin Global Dialogue conference, he dismissed fears that Russia would attack EU or NATO countries. He emphasized that NATO is well-prepared for any aggression and reassured that “Russia will not attack Albania and Russia will not attack any other European country.”
Security in Europe and NATO’s Strength
Rama noted that NATO remains the strongest military force globally, with 23 of the 27 EU member states being NATO members. Albania, which has been a NATO member since 2009, aligns its security policies with the alliance. He claimed, “NATO has nobody and nothing to fear.”
Tensions with Russia
Prime Minister Rama pointed out that several Eastern European nations, including Poland and Finland, have reported incidents of Russian drone incursions. He highlighted the ongoing provocations along the borders. “Countries on the border with Russia are being provoked daily,” he stated. Furthermore, he referred to NATO’s interception of Russian jets over Estonian airspace as indicative of rising tensions.
The EU’s Role in Peace Initiatives
Rama criticized the European Union for lacking a concrete peace plan for Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia. He stated, “The fact that the EU does not have a peace plan looks very strange to me.” His comments came as the U.S. pushes for a ceasefire, suggesting that the EU should develop a nuanced diplomatic approach to promote peace.
- Albania has not reported any Russian drone sightings.
- Rama believes there is no sympathy for Russia within Albania.
- Concerns exist about the potential spillover of conflict into the Western Balkans.
Continued EU Aspirations
During recent discussions in Tirana, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Albania’s progress towards EU membership. She noted significant advancements since 2022, indicating a positive shift in the EU’s openness toward the Western Balkans.
In conclusion, Albania’s position remains strong, with Rama highlighting NATO’s resilience against potential threats. As Europe navigates these complex dynamics, the call for a comprehensive peace strategy from the EU is more urgent than ever.
