Ukraine's restoration, defensive assistance and strengthening EU sanctions against Russia: President met with Italy Prime Minister

"It is an important signal of trust in Ukraine, to our ability not only to withstand in this war, which is the most important, but also to strengthen our common European stability," Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized. The President noted that a large -scale and systematic approach to the reconstruction of our country. Ukraine is counting on Italy's active participation in the development and implementation of the reconstruction plan.

Italy has already taken the patronage over the restoration of the cultural heritage of Odessa and intends to expand its contribution to other areas. George Meloni assured that Italy is ready to invest in Ukraine and its future. “At the conference, we sign a number of transactions, as well as financial guarantee tools for business, companies that are ready to invest, and this is important. But also about the direct investment of our industrial enterprises, ”she said.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted defensive support from Italy. Leaders also discussed the urgent needs to strengthen Ukraine's air defense. George Meloni condemned Russian strikes on civilians and critical infrastructure. The Prime Minister also expressed his condolences in connection with the death of Ukrainians. According to the President, now the priority of internal defense production of Ukraine is the drones, especially the interceptors.

He stressed that it is important to invest in Ukrainian defense and develop joint defense production. The head of the Italian government noted that only Ukraine demonstrates readiness for real peace negotiations, so it is necessary to continue to give it support, as well as to increase pressure on Russia.

Volodymyr Zelensky and George Meloni discussed the preparation of the 18th EU sanctions against Russia and overcoming artificial political obstacles on the way to Ukraine's membership in the European Union. Leaders also paid attention to the launch of a special tribunal on the crime of Russia's aggression against Ukraine. For Ukraine, it is important to ratify the Tribunal Agreement in the Italian Parliament as soon as possible.