Oct 9, 2024 – Leaders from 12 Southeast European countries gathered in Dubrovnik, Croatia, on Wednesday to affirm their support for Ukraine in the face of ongoing Russian aggression. The summit, which featured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, culminated in the adoption of a declaration condemning Russia’s actions and reaffirming Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The declaration explicitly denounces Russia’s military operations, including its annexation of Crimea in 2014, and underscores the importance of Zelensky’s peace plan. It states that a key condition for achieving peace is the complete withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory. Furthermore, the leaders expressed their commitment to Ukraine’s European integration and its future membership in NATO, contingent upon meeting specific criteria.
In addressing the summit, Zelensky emphasised the critical need for unity within Europe. “If Europe is not united, we cannot expect peace,” he said. He also highlighted the significance of peace, particularly in the Balkans, asserting that stability in this region is intertwined with the situation in Ukraine.
The declaration also addresses the urgent need for energy security in Ukraine as winter approaches, with leaders agreeing to provide assistance to mitigate the impact of Russian attacks on the energy sector. The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, currently under Russian control, was cited as requiring a return to Ukrainian management in line with the principles of the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovi?, the host of the summit, reinforced the idea that defending Ukraine is not merely an act of solidarity but a geopolitical necessity for the entire region. “By helping Ukraine, we are investing in the future of our children throughout Europe,” he stated.
Kosovo’s President Vjosa Osmani, who attended the summit, reiterated her country’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s right to live freely. Meanwhile, Serbian President Aleksandar Vu?i? met with Zelensky despite earlier indications that Serbia would send a different representative.
Prior to the summit, Plenkovi? and Zelensky signed a bilateral agreement aimed at fostering long-term cooperation and support, particularly focusing on Croatia’s expertise in prosecuting war crimes and mine clearance, lessons learned from the conflicts of the 1990s.
This summit marks the third high-level meeting between Ukraine and Southeast European nations since Russia’s invasion began in February 2022, following previous gatherings in Greece and Albania. As tensions persist, the leaders aim to consolidate their efforts in providing military and humanitarian support to Ukraine, underscoring their commitment to regional stability.
