US Ambassador to NATO, Matthew Whitaker, closely assessed Albania's military capabilities during a visit to the Kucova Air Base. In a post on "X," he announced that he conducted a flyover of the base, accompanied by Defense Minister Ermal Nufi, emphasizing that the country is enhancing its cyber defense capabilities and taking on more responsibilities. Whitaker noted that he also discussed these issues with Prime Minister Edi Rama and his team during the visit to Tirana. He further underscored that the US expects Albania to meet the defense spending target of 5% of Gross Domestic Product, as demanded by Donald Trump, as a significant step toward further increasing military capabilities and mobility in the region. "In Albania, I had an informative flyover tour of the Kucova Air Base, accompanied by Defense Minister Ermal Nufi. Albania is significantly increasing its cyber defense capabilities, is engaged in peace operations and the International Stabilization Force in Gaza, as well as other missions. During discussions with Prime Minister Edi Rama and his team, I emphasized that we look forward to seeing what more can be achieved for military mobility, once Albania meets President Donald Trump's target for defense spending at 5% of Gross Domestic Product," he wrote on X. In Albania, I had an informative flyover tour of the Kucova Air Base from Defense Minister Ermal Nufi. 🇦🇱 is increasingly capable in cyber defense, committed to the Board of Peace and International Stabilization Force in Gaza, and more. Discussing with Prime Minister Rama, and… pic.twitter.com/NHEw3RjvEp