The former president of Croatia, Kolinda Grabar Kitarović, joined a meeting on Zagreb’s main square on Saturday. This gathering was organized in a show of support for Ukraine and was attended by a multitude of individuals, including some well-known faces in politics.
Following the gathering, Grabar Kitarović engaged in a conversation with journalists from RTL, where she shared her current perspective on her involvement in Croatian politics. She made it clear that at this point in time, she does not see herself playing a role in the political landscape of Croatia. That being said, she didn’t deny the possibility of a future return, hinting at the unpredictability of life and the potential changes it may bring.
Despite her past role as the president of the Republic, she confessed that politics was never a passion of hers. She expressed a preference for her current work, which revolves around international relations and geopolitics. Regardless, she carries no regrets about her time spent in Pantovčak as the President, believing that one can only shape the future, not change the past.
Grabar Kitarović’s successor at Pantovčak is Zoran Milanović. As we enter a super-election year, the country awaits not only parliamentary and European Parliament elections but also presidential elections. Milanović is nearing the conclusion of his first presidential term. Although he has not made any official announcements, it is generally expected that he will run for a second term.
The gathering in Trg ban Jelačić was an opportunity for the former president to show her support for Ukraine. This particular event also marked the somber second anniversary of the commencement of the war. Grabar Kitarović admitted that this day stirred up strong emotions within her, especially given her personal ties to many Ukrainian individuals.
She highlighted the impact of the war on the people of Ukraine, estimating that Ukrainians have spent between 3,000 and 4,000 hours in basements and shelters due to the conflict over the last two years. This, she emphasized, represents significant losses in terms of life and youth.
Reflecting on the war that took place in her own country, Croatia, she noted the long-lasting trauma it left on its people. This trauma, she explained, has been passed down through generations, affecting even those who have not personally experienced war. She expressed hope for the cessation of the war in Ukraine and a subsequent period of rebuilding and reconciliation.
Grabar Kitarović emphasized that all wars eventually conclude with negotiations. She expressed her belief that the Ukrainian people should be the ones to decide on these negotiations. However, she admitted that she cannot predict when these negotiations may commence.
The gathering also saw the attendance of other notable individuals such as Zagreb mayor Tomislav Tomašević, Sandra Benčić and Ivana Kekin from the Mozemo! party. Alongside these figures, the Ukrainian ambassador to Croatia, the current minister of defense Tomo Medved, and the head of the prime minister’s office Zvonimir Frka-Petešić were also present. Numerous citizens also gathered on the square, carrying messages of support for Ukraine.
