Born in Prague, she became the first woman at the helm of American diplomacy. It was her background that gave her a very special insight into the realities of Central Europe. Given the tragic fate of her family in the time of war, she understood intimately the true meaning of the words freedom, democracy, human rights and security. She understood that they were something to strive for, to persevere and even to sacrifice for.

Her determination, steadfastness and commitment were one of the main driving forces behind the countries of the former Soviet bloc joining NATO. Especially now, witnessing the Russian aggression against Ukraine, we can fully appreciate how foresightful that decision was. She also played a key role in stopping the murderous machinery of Serbian dictator Slobodan Milošević.

Madeleine Albright kept a clear sight of things until the end of her days. She was fully aware of the dangers Europe was facing. She wrote about them, lectured about them and above all kept warning about them. Exactly a month ago on the eve of Putin’s attack against Ukraine, The New York Times published her op-ed piece on Moscow’s sabre rattling:

“Should he invade, it will be a historic error.

Mr. Putin has for years sought to burnish his country’s international reputation, expand Russia’s military and economic might, weaken NATO and divide Europe (while driving a wedge between it and the United States). Ukraine features in all of that.

Instead of paving Russia’s path to greatness, invading Ukraine would ensure Mr. Putin’s infamy by leaving his country diplomatically isolated, economically crippled and strategically vulnerable in the face of a stronger, more united Western alliance.”

Truly prophetic words, indeed.

At the moment, we cannot even start to fully understand the loss brought about by her passing. What we, however, can do is to ensure that we uphold her values and carry on her struggle. This is the best way to preserve her legacy.