The Greek, Croatian, and Montenegrin leadership participated in an important international summit taking place in the strategic port city of Odesa
This meeting became yet another diplomatic signal of support for Ukraine from neighboring countries of Southeast Europe and a confirmation of their unwavering commitment to European integration and the sovereignty of our state. According to official reports, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis arrived in Odesa to attend the fourth “Ukraine – Southeast Europe” summit, which is currently ongoing on June 11. Information from sources within the Greek government confirms that the country’s leader traveled to the Ukrainian port to participate in a diplomatic forum discussing regional security issues, political cooperation, and economic stability. The reports emphasize that this is Mitsotakis's fourth visit to Ukraine since the full-scale resistance to Russian aggression began, and each time the Greek Prime Minister underscores support for Ukraine, its territorial integrity, and European aspirations. Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković also arrived in Odesa to attend the summit. Although official sources from the Croatian government did not specify the exact location of the event, it is known that a previous meeting within similar forums took place in Dubrovnik, Croatia. An official statement notes that this is already the fourth visit by the Croatian Prime Minister to Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities since the full-scale war for Ukraine’s independence began. During the conflict, Croatia has generously supported Kyiv and provided various forms of assistance totaling approximately 315 million euros, including humanitarian aid, technical support, and military equipment. Additionally, Croatia has already granted temporary protection to 30,000 Ukrainian refugees fleeing Russian aggression. Regarding Montenegro, President Jakov Milatović was officially invited to this important forum held in Odesa. This was reported on the official website of the Montenegrin head of state. The statement highlights that, besides Milatović, several other high-ranking guests will participate, including Moldovan President Maia Sandu and Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov. Interestingly, the summit will also feature Romania’s new President, Klaus Iohannis, and Serbia’s President, Aleksandar Vučić, for whom this is his first trip to Ukraine since his election and the start of hostilities. The Serbian leader has a particular status in regional politics, and his participation underscores the complexity of inter-state relations in this part of Europe and the importance of seeking compromises amid the ongoing war. The summit in Odesa is becoming a significant diplomatic platform where leaders from five countries — Greece, Croatia, Montenegro, Moldova, and Bulgaria — have gathered to discuss current regional issues, strengthen cooperation, and demonstrate unity in supporting Ukraine in its fight for independence and territorial integrity. Such international activity and public assurances of support reaffirm the critical role played by Southeast European countries in the global security architecture, as well as their readiness to act as stabilizing factors in the region. This diplomatic event occurs on the eve of important decisions and further steps in international support for Ukraine and the fight against Russian aggression. The outcomes of the summit could have far-reaching implications for regional stability and the future development of relations between Ukraine and neighboring countries that aim to preserve peace and security within and beyond their borders.