Edi Rama warns EU leaders on Ukraine: military support alone is not enough
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama delivered a blunt message to European leaders during a virtual address at a Kyiv summit marking three years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. While reaffirming Albania’s unwavering support for Ukraine, Rama warned that Europe is ignoring a shifting geopolitical reality—one where the United States and Russia are engaging in independent negotiations, sidelining both Ukraine and Europe in the process.
Why is this important: While EU leaders repeated their promises of military aid and Ukraine’s future integration into the bloc, Rama challenged them to face a new reality. With a new U.S. administration in power, he argued that the strategic landscape has changed, yet Europe continues operating as if nothing has happened. His remarks emphasized the need for Europe to adopt a more unified diplomatic approach rather than relying solely on Washington’s lead.
Context: Rama expressed concerns that Ukraine could be pressured into accepting an unfair settlement dictated by U.S.-Russia talks, a possibility that Europe must take seriously. “We have long been on American autopilot,” he said, cautioning that Europe must now take greater responsibility for its own security and diplomatic strategy.
“Something important has changed, as you all know. The question is how Ukraine will be supported effectively and how Europe, as a continent, can be efficient in protecting itself while making the most of what is happening—a negotiation between Russia and the United States,” Rama stated.
He questioned whether increasing military aid alone would be enough, arguing that strategic diplomacy should be given equal weight. “I’m not sure that simply talking about more military support and increased spending means we fully understand the issue. That’s my modest opinion—perhaps I’m wrong,” he added.
Rama urged European leaders, including those in the UK and Turkey, to acknowledge these developments and act accordingly. “Watching the U.S. and Russia discuss a deal while leaving Ukraine out should be cause for concern. A forced settlement would be unjust.”
Despite his warnings, Rama reaffirmed Albania’s full support for Ukraine, pledging that his country would stand behind any European decision to assist Kyiv in its fight for sovereignty.
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