Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the Albanian Parliament through a video message where he detailed the horrific acts committed by Russia against Ukrainian citizens.
Zelenskyy began his address by wishing the Albanian people a peaceful Eid, remarking that peace is all Ukrainians pray for since February 24.
“During these months, we haven’t had a single day of calm and peace. That is how we live since February 24. Russia has turned every day into a threat to our lives,” the President said.
Zelenskyy listed the names and ages of the children and teenagers lost to the war in the last days alone, and described the destruction wrought on the city of Mariupol.
“The elderly who survived the Nazi occupation say they did not see such atrocities even at the time,” he added.
He thanked the Albanian people and government for their support, referring explicitly to the figure of Mother Teresa.
“You are definitely on the side of the truth. Thank you for the concrete steps for Ukraine, against Russia, for the care you give to our children and our people. Your attitude towards the people of Ukraine, towards the children of Ukraine, reminds me of the Albanian Mother Teresa, who has become a symbol of humanism around the world,” Zelenskyy said.
Zelenskyy also called on the Albanian government to restrict access to Russian businessman and tourists.
“I believe that together, in the European environment, in our efforts, we will be able to prevent this war. And to protect Europe in the future from a war. Russian gangs need to be removed from the global market. You need to seize the opportunity against Russia in a timely manner. I ask you to restrict your borders to Russian ships and restrict the arrival of tourists, because maybe the killers of Bucha or Irpin are coming. Let’s do something principled and stop using UN funds for Russia,” the President urged.
Ukrainian ambassador to Albania Volodimir Shkurov attended the speech. The MPs displayed Ukrainian flags on their desks.
