Albania has emerged as one of the primary hubs for “Defender Europe ’25,” one of the largest multinational military exercises in Europe and Africa over the past decade. Organized by the United States European Command (USEUCOM) in close cooperation with NATO member states and strategic partners, this operation aims to enhance international military cooperation, increase readiness, and strengthen interoperability among allied forces.
Among the thousands of soldiers and officers participating in this expansive exercise, one personal story stands out — that of Captain Hatixhe Çollaku. Although she currently serves in the New Jersey National Guard in the United States, Çollaku was born in Peshkopia, Albania, and carries her heritage with deep pride.
Her story was brought to public attention by Albania’s Minister of Defense, Pirro Vengu, who described her journey as “a double pride” — a source of inspiration not only for the Albanian Armed Forces but for Albanians everywhere.
“Captain Çollaku shares her inspiring experience during Defender Europe ’25, where cooperation with the Albanian Armed Forces is not just a professional mission, but also a return to her roots,” Minister Vengu stated.
Having emigrated to the U.S. with her family in 1999, Çollaku has maintained a strong connection to her homeland. “My family made sure I never forgot the language or the culture. We came back to Albania every summer,” she recalls. Inspired by her father, a former member of the Albanian military, she chose to pursue a military career in the United States, first through education programs and later by continuing active service.
“For me, being here in Albania as part of a multinational mission is more than a duty — it’s a feeling. The Albanian military is a core part of my personal and professional formation,” says Captain Çollaku, who currently serves in the intelligence sector of the exercise.
“Defender Europe ’25” runs through June 9 and involves a large number of troops, equipment, and operational scenarios across several countries in the region. For Albania, participation in this high-level NATO-led exercise underscores its growing role and commitment within the Euro-Atlantic security architecture.
Yet for Captain Çollaku, the mission is more than a strategic responsibility — it is a deeply personal journey. Wearing a U.S. uniform while standing on Albanian soil, she represents the merging of two nations, two identities, and a shared future built on cooperation and resilience.