First New Embassy Opens in Kyiv Since Start of Russia’s Full-Scale War

On Friday, the Embassy of the Republic of Albania officially began its operations in Kyiv, marking the first new diplomatic mission to open in Ukraine since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion.

The opening ceremony was attended by Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Andrii Sybiha, and Albania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Igli Hasani. The event, described by both officials as a significant milestone, symbolizes the strengthening of bilateral ties and shared commitments to a united European and NATO future.

“This is a testament to Ukrainian-Albanian resilience, unity, and our shared path forward in the European Union and NATO,” Sybiha stated in a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

Igli Hasani emphasized Albania’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, underscoring his country’s commitment to the international response to the ongoing war. “We deeply admire the strength and determination of the Ukrainian government and people. The international community must continue providing robust political, diplomatic, and humanitarian support to Ukraine, and Albania stands ready to fulfill its role in this vital mission,” Hasani wrote on X.

Earlier, on December 30, Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Andrii Sybiha, raised the Ukrainian flag over the Honorary Consulate in Damascus during a formal ceremony, expressing gratitude to Honorary Consul General Tamer Altounsi and the Ukrainian community in Syria for their efforts in preserving Ukrainian language and culture.