Russian strike damages Albanian ambassador's residence in Kyiv
Photo: Russian strike damages residence of Albania’s ambassador in Kyiv (RBC-Ukraine)
The residence of Albania's ambassador to Ukraine was damaged during Russia's attack on Kyiv on the night of May 24. The Russian ambassador was summoned for explanations, according to Albanian Foreign Minister Ferit Hoxha.
"Albania strongly condemns yet another brutal and indiscriminate large-scale ballistic missile and drone attack launched last night by Russia against civilian targets in Ukraine, in total disregard for human life and basic human decency. This time, the residential complex where the Ambassador of Albania to Ukraine resides was struck, putting his life at serious risk. This is unacceptable!" the minister said.
He stressed that attacks on civilian areas or threats to diplomatic personnel represent a serious escalation and "another stark reminder of the human cost of Russia's continued aggression."
"This war of choice has lasted for far too long. For more than four years since its illegal full-scale invasion, Russia has relentlessly targeted energy infrastructure, schools, hospitals, and homes across Ukraine. Yet it has failed to break the #courage, determination, resilience, and strength of the Ukrainian people," Hoxha added.
The Albanian minister also said that "Russia is not winning; it is only killing, destroying, and inflicting widespread devastation and suffering."
He reiterated calls for Russia to immediately stop the attacks, end the war against Ukraine, fully comply with international law, and return to negotiations.
"Albania will continue to stand firmly with Ukraine and reiterates its unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Those responsible for these attacks must be held accountable," he emphasized.
The Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also summoned the Russian ambassador in Tirana for explanations.
Massive attack on Kyiv
As a reminder, on the night of May 24, Russia carried out a massive combined strike on Ukraine using attack drones and missiles launched from air, sea, and land platforms. The main target of the attack was Kyiv.
Debris fell in several districts of the capital, causing destruction, dozens of injuries, and fatalities.
It was also reported that the building of Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs suffered minor damage during the attack.
Ukrainian Air Force communications chief Yurii Ihnat told RBC-Ukraine that Russian forces also struck Kyiv region with a medium-range ballistic missile RS-26 Rubezh (Oreshnik) during the night.