Rama Assures Al Jazeera: Russia Won’t Threaten Other European Nations

In a recent interview with Emegypt, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama addressed European security concerns related to the ongoing war in Ukraine. He firmly stated that Russia does not pose a threat to NATO member nations, including Albania. Rama noted that any attack on NATO countries would be “completely foolish.”

Rama’s Views on Russia and NATO

Rama emphasized that Russia would not attack any European country, including Albania. “NATO is ready for any kind of aggression,” he said, highlighting the alliance’s strength. He pointed out that NATO is currently the strongest military force globally.

EU’s Role in the Ukraine Conflict

During the interview, Rama criticized the European Union for lacking a clear peace plan for Ukraine. He stated, “The fact that the EU doesn’t have a peace plan seems very strange.” He urged European officials to foster diplomatic efforts to end the conflict with Russia.

• The EU is being provoked by Russia daily.
• 23 of the 27 EU member states are NATO allies.
• Albania has been a NATO member since 2009 and a candidate for EU membership since 2014.

Current Tensions In Europe

Rama’s statements came amid rising tensions in Eastern Europe. Various nations, including Poland, Finland, and Romania, have reported suspected Russian drone incursions. Furthermore, NATO intercepted Russian fighter jets allegedly breaching Estonian airspace, which Moscow denied.

Rama reassured that Albania has not experienced any drone sightings, and the country feels secure despite escalating incidents in neighboring regions. He asserted, “We are not afraid … There is no place for Russian hostility in Albania.”

Western Balkans in Focus

The Prime Minister expressed concerns about the stability of the Western Balkans, a region with a history of deep-rooted tensions. He mentioned the importance of EU attention and support for these countries to maintain regional security.

• The Western Balkans include:
  • Albania
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina
  • Kosovo
  • Montenegro
  • North Macedonia
  • Serbia

Recently, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the Western Balkans as “the cradle of Europe.” This highlights the importance of the region and the need for European stability amidst rising tensions.

EU’s Commitment to the Balkans

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen acknowledged the progress of Albania and Montenegro towards EU membership. During a press conference held in Tirana, she commended Albania’s impressive development rate since 2022.

Rama believes that the EU’s approach towards the Balkans has improved since the beginning of the Ukraine conflict. This shifting dynamic may contribute to greater regional stability and enhanced diplomatic engagements moving forward.