Haxhiu: Kosovo Will Continue Supporting Ukraine Since the Start of the Russian Invasion

On the occasion of Ukraine’s Independence Day, the acting President of the Republic of Kosovo, Albulena Haxhiu, and acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti today received Ukrainian journalists staying in Kosovo.

In her address, Haxhiu said that some of the Ukrainian journalists had considered Kosovo a temporary home during the difficult years of war.

“From Kosovo, you have continued to write, report, speak and work for your country. It is a pleasure that you are here with us today, as your presence gives this day a special meaning,” acting President Haxhiu stated.

She said that although Kosovo’s history is not the same as Ukraine’s, the country’s experience has enabled Kosovars to deeply understand the human cost of war.

“We know what it means to leave home without knowing when you will return. We know the importance of support from others at the moments when you need it most, and we know that freedom, when threatened, must be defended with everything we have,” she stressed.

According to Haxhiu, the resistance shown by Ukraine during these years constitutes an extraordinary example of resilience.

“Ukrainians have continued to defend their country, their communities and their way of life, despite the extraordinary pressure. They have kept institutions, cities and schools functioning, keeping the truth alive even as the war continues. This determination is deeply respected by the Republic of Kosovo,” the acting President said.

Haxhiu underlined that Kosovo has stood alongside Ukraine since the first days of the Russian invasion, due to its belief in the right of the Ukrainian people to decide their own future, defend their territory and live freely.

She also mentioned the concrete measures taken by Kosovo, including the imposition of sanctions against Russia immediately after the start of Russian aggression, further alignment with European and transatlantic partners, hosting Ukrainian journalists, the temporary suspension of the visa regime for Ukrainian citizens, and preparations to receive people forced to leave their homes because of the war.

According to her, support has also been provided in the field of defence. Kosovo is part of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, while members of the Kosovo Security Force have taken part in training Ukrainian soldiers, including Operation Interflex. Kosovo has also provided two military aid packages, containing 30 military vehicles and 10,000 mortar shells.

Haxhiu said that the stay of Ukrainian journalists in Kosovo is of particular importance, as during the Kosovo war it became clear how essential it is to document events and inform the world about what is happening.

“For this reason, providing a safe place where journalists can continue their work has meant much more to us than simply providing shelter,” she said.

The acting President of Kosovo stated that the country wants peace for Ukraine, but a peace that guarantees its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. According to her, this must be a peace in which Ukrainians decide their own future and rebuild their country in freedom.

“Kosovo will continue to stand alongside Ukraine. I sincerely hope that the ties created between people during these difficult years will, over time, turn into even closer relations between our two countries. Happy Independence Day to Ukraine and all Ukrainians!” Haxhiu concluded.