Defence Minister Niko Peleshi participated in the meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) that took place at the Air Base in Ramstein, Germany on January 20, 2023. 

This was the eighth meeting of ministers and chiefs of staff of over 50 countries of the world as well as of Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian aggression against Ukraine. 

The meeting that was led by the Secretary of Defence of the USA Mr. Lloyd J. Austin III focused on continuing military assistance to Ukraine, as well as other security issues facing NATO Allies and Partners. 

During his speech, Defence Minister Niko Peleshi praised the Ukrainian people for their courage and determination, as well as the government's leadership, as it is approaching one year since the start of the war. Also, Minister Pelesi expressed his condolences to the Ukrainian Minister for the lives lost by the recent Russian attacks on the Ukrainian people. 

Further, Minister Peleshi mentioned the contribution that Albania has offered to Ukraine, while announcing the preparation of another significant support package. 

The Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) is an initiative of the US Secretary of Defence that brings together allies and partners from around the world to discuss the cooperation and security challenges that must be faced as a result of the Russian aggression in Ukraine.