Prishtina, 25 August 2025
The Acting Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, attended the reception organized by the Embassy of Germany, the Embassy of the United Kingdom, the EU Office in Kosovo, and AJK, in honor of Ukraine’s Independence Day.
On this occasion, in his remarks, he said that by celebrating here today, we join not only those in Ukraine but also people across the world in marking the 34th anniversary of the independence of a country that has become both the most famous in Europe today and a benchmark by which the security of our continent is judged.
“Kosovo has long supported Ukraine’s struggle to defend its territorial integrity and state sovereignty, so that it may build a strong future rather than remain constantly exposed to aggression. The diplomatic activity of recent days has underscored how central this issue remains,” said Prime Minister Kurti, adding that since the beginning of the war, Kosovo chose not to be an observer, but joined the United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom in imposing sanctions, opened our doors to journalists and others seeking refuge and a safe place from which to continue their work, and assisted the Ukrainian army through military aid packages and training within the framework of Operation Interflex.
Addressing the many attendees, in his introductory speech on the occasion of Ukraine’s Independence Day, Prime Minister Kurti congratulated all Ukrainians, confirming that Kosovo stands in solidarity with Ukraine on this solemn occasion, committed to supporting its independence and sovereignty throughout its entire territory, as well as its aspiration for a secure, democratic, and peaceful future.
Full Speech of Prime Minister Kurti:
Dear Ukrainians,
Dear Ambassador Rohde,
Dear Ministers, Members of Parliament, and Diplomatic Choir,
Dear KFOR Commander Barduani,
Dear Representatives of International Organizations, Civil Society, and Media,
Dear Friends,
Dear friends of the Ukrainian,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
By celebrating here today, we join not only those in Ukraine, but also people around the world, in marking the 34th anniversary of the independence of a country that has become both the most famous in Europe today and a measure by which the security of our continent is judged.
Kosova has long supported Ukraine’s fight to defend its territorial integrity and state sovereignty, so that it may build a future of strength rather than remain perpetually exposed to aggression. The diplomatic activity of recent days has underscored how central this question remains.
From the very beginning of the war, Kosova has chosen not to be a bystander. We joined the United States, the European Union and United Kingdom in imposing sanctions and opened our doors to journalists and others seeking shelter and a safe place from which to continue their work.
There is powerful symbolism in this. Not long ago, Kosova itself emerged from war and soon faced a geopolitical landscape in which a close ally of Russia, with Moscow’s backing, sought to undermine the sovereignty of our country. Between September 2024 and March 2025, there were 32 recorded instances in which Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova referred to Kosova, remarks aimed at diminishing our independence and sovereignty, which are sacred to our people, and essential to the security of the region and the continent as a whole. Meetings between Serbia’s senior clergy and high level officials with Vladimir Putin and Kremlin have further demonstrated plans against our country.
The battle in Ukraine reveals the true brutality of such aggression and the Russian imperialist vision. At the same time, it has demonstrated the extraordinary resilience and bravery of the Ukrainian people. Amidst the devastation of three and a half years of war, Ukrainian trains have continued to operate effectively, playing a vital role in evacuating civilians. The entire population has risen to answer the call: the wounded and the doctors who care for them; those supplying food, where shortages affect five million people, especially on the frontlines; the children, the elderly, and women, including some serving as soldiers until their seventh month of pregnancy; and the incredible contributions of countless volunteers. The spirit of Ukrainians is unbreakable – among many books documenting this, the last one I read was the War Diary 2022-2025 by Ruslan Pikhota, Smile under the Roar of Cannon Fire.
Happy Independence Day to all Ukrainians. Kosova stands in solidarity with Ukraine on this solemn occasion, committed to supporting its independence and sovereignty in all of its territory and the pursuit of a secure, democratic and peaceful future.
Z Dnem Nezalezhnosti Ukrayiny!
Happy Independence Day Ukraine!
