Working Visit by the President of Ukraine to Italy

 

President of Ukraine Meets with President of Italy

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with President of the Italian Republic Sergio Mattarella.

The Ukrainian leader noted that this meeting reaffirmed the sincere friendship and mutual respect between the peoples of Ukraine and Italy.

“Thank you for your words of support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. I want to thank all the people of Italy, the Prime Minister, and you, dear Mr. President, for the assistance provided to our country. And for your principled recognition that this war brought by Putin is a great evil,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

He emphasized that Ukraine is doing everything possible to achieve a just and sustainable peace. Meanwhile, the Russian Federation rejects all constructive proposals and shows only a desire to continue its aggression. Therefore, progress towards peace is possible solely through strengthening sanctions and pressure on Russia, and by reinforcing Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.

The presidents discussed support for Ukraine’s efforts to return Ukrainian children illegally deported to the Russian Federation.

The meeting also covered the launch of the Special Tribunal on the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine. The Ukrainian President called on Italy to ratify the Agreement on the Establishment of a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Russian Aggression Against Ukraine so that Italy can participate fully in these efforts and the tribunal can begin operating as soon as possible.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed particular gratitude to Italy for hosting the Ukraine Recovery Conference. According to him, our country’s reconstruction must also serve as a catalyst for its deep transformation. Ukraine is interested in engaging Italian businesses in the recovery efforts.

The President of Italy noted that more than 500 Italian companies will take part in the Ukraine Recovery Conference tomorrow. Concrete agreements and decisions are expected.

The heads of state discussed Ukraine’s path toward the EU, including Ukraine’s fulfillment of all conditions necessary to open accession negotiations, involving partners in peace talks, and the need for increased pressure on Russia to deprive the aggressor of economic tools for waging war.

 

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Keith Kellogg Discuss U.S. Weapons Supplies to Ukraine and Sanctions Against the Russian Federation

In Rome, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg.

The Head of State expressed gratitude for Keith Kellogg’s participation in the Ukraine Recovery Conference: the General leads the U.S. delegation.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s full support for President Trump’s peace initiatives. An unconditional, comprehensive ceasefire and a meeting at the level of leaders are needed to ensure peace negotiations are genuine and effective.

The parties discussed the recent phone conversation between the leaders of Ukraine and the United States. In particular, one of the priority topics was strengthening Ukraine’s air defense amid massive Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities.

The President highlighted the importance of signals from Washington about resuming military aid supplies to Ukraine. The meeting also covered strengthening Ukraine’s Defense Forces, prospects for purchasing American weapons, Ukrainian-U.S. defense manufacturing, including joint drone production projects, and localization efforts in Ukraine.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Keith Kellogg paid special attention to maintaining sanctions pressure on the Russian Federation. In particular, the discussion included the Graham-Blumenthal bill, tightening sanctions on the energy and banking sectors, targeting the Russian shadow fleet, and secondary sanctions on buyers of Russian oil.

 

Let This Be the Moment We Start Building a Coalition for Recovery — President at URC 2025

Russia launches hundreds of drones and missiles every night, so Ukraine needs increased investments in air defense and the establishment of a coalition of countries for recovery. This was stated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the opening of the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2025, held in Rome.

The Head of State noted that just the night before last, Russia launched over 700 drones and missiles at Ukraine, and last night — more than 400. As a result of the latest attack on Kyiv, two people were killed and 16 injured, a medical laboratory was completely destroyed, and residential buildings, a shopping center, a veterinary clinic, and basic city infrastructure were damaged.

The President called on partners to increase air defense supplies and boost investments in interceptor drones, air defense systems, and missiles.

“When Russia increases its attacks, we cannot have a shortage of funding for drone production. More than 30 countries and hundreds of companies are represented at the Conference today. And we must reach a point where Ukraine’s air defense and drone sector is supported by over 30 countries and backed by hundreds of companies – not only from Ukraine, but also from Europe, the United States, and beyond,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized.

The President noted that Ukraine possesses some of the world’s most advanced drone technologies for both offensive and defensive purposes, which it is ready to share with its partners.

The Head of State thanked the countries participating in the drone coalition and the aviation coalition and stressed that now a coalition for recovery must be created. According to him, it is necessary to identify the countries and companies that will participate and to develop a clear reconstruction plan.

“We need a Marshall Plan-style approach – and we should develop it together. Rebuilding Ukraine is not just about our country, it’s also about your countries, your companies, your technology, your jobs – the way we rebuild our country can also modernize your infrastructure and industries,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

He also stressed that frozen Russian assets must be used for Ukraine’s recovery. Moreover, our state needs a clear system for reconstruction — a special recovery fund and financing at various levels: for Ukraine’s national budget and for local communities.

Separately, the Head of State highlighted that Ukraine is already preparing for the coming winter. The President thanked everyone who helped the country get through the previous three winters and called for continued joint efforts.

According to the President, over 500 companies are represented at the Conference in Italy, with about 200 agreements ready to be signed, worth over 10 billion euros.

“And please – let’s also focus on energy. Putin has only two real “allies” – terror and winter. And we must respond to both,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy concluded.

The Ukraine Recovery Conference, held on July 10–11 in Rome, is already the fourth international event supporting the rebuilding of our country after the devastation caused by Russia’s full-scale aggression. Previous conferences took place in Lugano (2022), London (2023), and Berlin (2024).

Around 4,000 representatives of governments, business, and civil society are participating in the event. Among them are over 100 heads of state and government and leaders of international organizations.

New financial and investment agreements will be signed following the conference, platforms for attracting private capital will be launched, and partnerships between governments, businesses, international organizations, and Ukrainian communities will deepen.

 

Ukraine’s Recovery, Defense Assistance, and Strengthening EU Sanctions Against Russia: President Meets with President of the Council of Ministers of Italy

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with President of the Council of Ministers of Italy Giorgia Meloni.

The Head of State thanked her for organizing the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome. The event is attended by over 500 Italian companies, and around 200 bilateral agreements worth more than €10 billion are expected to be signed.

“This is an important signal of trust in Ukraine – in our ability not only to withstand this war, which is paramount, but also to enhance our shared European stability,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized.

The President noted the need for a large-scale and systematic approach to the reconstruction of our country. Ukraine expects active participation from Italy in developing and implementing the recovery plan. Italy has already taken on the patronage of the restoration of Odesa’s cultural heritage and intends to expand its contribution to other areas.

Giorgia Meloni assured that Italy is ready to invest in Ukraine and its future.

"At the conference, we are signing a number of agreements, as well as financial guarantee instruments for businesses and companies willing to invest – and this is critically important. Also included are direct investments from our industrial enterprises," she said.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted Italy’s defense support. The leaders also discussed Ukraine’s urgent needs to further strengthen its air defense.

Giorgia Meloni condemned Russia’s strikes on civilians and critical infrastructure, and expressed condolences over the deaths of Ukrainians.

According to the President, Ukraine’s top priority in domestic defense production is drones – particularly interceptors. He emphasized the importance of investing in Ukraine’s defense industry and developing joint defense production.

The President of the Council of Ministers of Italy noted that Ukraine is the only side demonstrating readiness for genuine peace talks, and therefore, support for Ukraine must continue, along with increasing pressure on Russia.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Giorgia Meloni also discussed the preparation of the EU’s 18th package of sanctions against Russia, as well as overcoming artificial political obstacles on Ukraine’s path to EU membership.

The leaders also focused on launching the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression Against Ukraine. Ukraine considers the swift ratification of the agreement establishing the tribunal by the Italian Parliament to be essential.

A separate focus of the meeting was the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. Ukraine counts on continued support from both Italy and the Vatican in this matter.

 

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Dick Schoof Discuss Joint Weapons Production

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Prime Minister of the Netherlands Dick Schoof to discuss joint defense production and coordinate diplomatic efforts.

The Head of State thanked the Netherlands for announcing a €300 million aid package to support Ukraine’s recovery and resilience throughout this year and the next.

During the meeting, the leaders discussed enhancing joint defense production and the urgent need to bolster Ukraine’s air defense, as Russia continues to increase the number of drones and missiles used in massive attacks on Ukrainian cities and villages.

Dick Schoof condemned the recent Russian strikes on civilians and civilian infrastructure and reaffirmed his full support for Ukraine.

The meeting also addressed the importance of joint diplomatic efforts with partners, particularly NATO member states, and the need to strengthen transatlantic unity.

The President thanked the Netherlands for hosting the NATO Summit in The Hague, for the new defense package announced during the summit, and for the signing of direct contracts with Ukrainian manufacturers under the Drone Line initiative.

 

Statement of the Coalition of the Willing Meeting by the Leaders of the United Kingdom, France, and Ukraine

Today the leaders of member states and international organisations of the Coalition of the Willing gathered in London, Rome and virtually to discuss strengthening support to Ukraine and further pressure on Russia. They welcomed the participation of United States Special Presidential Envoy, General Keith Kellogg, and Senators Graham and Blumenthal - the first time representatives of the United States have joined in the Coalition of the Willing meeting.

The leaders congratulated Prime Minister Meloni of Italy on hosting the Ukraine Recovery Conference, from where President Zelenskyy and fellow leaders joined the meeting.

The Leaders reiterated that President Putin’s unprovoked and illegal invasion of Ukraine is a flagrant violation of the UN Charter and a threat to their security interests. They underlined their unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.

They commended President Zelenskyy’s sincere support for US-led efforts to reach peace. Four months have passed since Ukraine agreed to a full, unconditional ceasefire. In this time, Russia has intensified attacks on Ukraine’s civilian population, killing more than 700 and injuring over 3,500 in the most intense air strikes of the invasion to date. The Leaders called on Russia to end attacks against civilians, and to commit to a full and unconditional ceasefire in order to negotiate a just and lasting settlement.

The Leaders supported further peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, praising efforts by President Trump on establishing a peace process backed by the United States and other close partners. This should make progress towards a meeting of leaders.

Leaders also agreed to step up action against Russia’s war economy. They agreed to develop further restrictive measures, in coordination with all relevant actors, against Russia’s energy and financial sectors, including Russian oil and gas exports, the ‘shadow fleet’, and third country supply to Russia’s war machine.

The Leaders reiterated that strong Ukrainian armed forces are the primary guarantee of the country’s sovereignty and security. They agreed that, while Russia’s aggression continues, this group would prioritise making sure that Ukraine gets the military and financial support it needs to defend itself in the fight now. Furthermore, they reaffirmed agreement to provide at least €40bn in military support to Ukraine in 2025 to bolster the Security and Defense Forces of Ukraine – matching the commitment made by the NATO Alliance in 2024. They agreed to work through the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU) and the Capability Coalitions to accelerate support for Ukraine’s future forces.

A primary priority for support is the strengthening of Ukraine’s integrated air-defence capabilities. Leaders also agreed on further support to deter Russian massive drone attacks, and to increase financing for the production of drone interceptors.

They reiterated their commitment to Ukraine’s long-term security and to building Ukraine’s ability to deter and defend against future armed attack by Russia. They welcomed the development of mature operational plans to deploy a reassurance force  - the ‘Multinational Force Ukraine’ - once hostilities have ceased, and to help secure Ukraine’s skies and seas and regenerate Ukraine’s armed forces. They welcomed the establishment of a UK/French led operational headquarters to support planning activity, the commitments made by partners to contribute to the force, as well as Ukraine’s readiness to issue an invitation to the force and enter into formal agreements with participating countries where necessary.

Leaders also underlined the importance of ensuring fiscal and economic support for Ukraine. They agreed to draw up a collective plan to support Ukrainian public finances in 2026. They also recognised that free and safe navigation in the Black Sea will strengthen Ukraine’s economy and restore food security, and reiterated their commitment to support demining efforts in the Black Sea. The Leaders also agreed to continue to explore all lawful routes to ensure that Russia pays for the damage that it has done to Ukraine, including looking at further options for the use of revenues stemming from Russian immobilised sovereign assets.

 

President of Ukraine Meets with Prime Minister of Bulgaria

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Prime Minister of Bulgaria Rossen Jeliazkov.

The Head of State thanked him for participating in the Ukraine Recovery Conference, the meeting of leaders of the Coalition of the Willing, for supporting Ukraine on its path to EU membership, and for continuing defense assistance.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Rossen Jeliazkov discussed expanding cooperation in the energy sector, particularly in the context of energy security.

The parties agreed to hold an expert-level meeting in the near future for a focused discussion on key issues.

 

Volodymyr Zelenskyy Discusses Ukraine’s Recovery, EU Integration, and Sanctions Against Russia with Presidents of the European Commission and European Council

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and President of the European Council António Costa.

The Head of State thanked the European Commission for announcing a new support package worth over €2 billion under the Ukraine Investment Framework. This initiative is expected to mobilize up to €10 billion in investments for the country’s recovery and reconstruction.

President Zelenskyy also highlighted the establishment of the European Flagship Fund for the Reconstruction of Ukraine, launched with the participation of the European Commission, the European Investment Bank, France, Germany, Italy, and Poland. The Fund will contribute to the development of a private investment market in Ukraine.

The parties paid close attention to Ukraine’s European integration. Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine is ready to open all negotiating clusters during Denmark’s Presidency of the EU Council. Therefore, it is crucial to find a solution to overcome Hungary’s veto.

The parties also discussed the urgent need for the EU to adopt its 18th package of sanctions against Russia, aimed at increasing pressure on the Russian energy and banking sectors.

                                                           

Joint Weapons Production and Strengthening Ukraine’s Air Defense: Volodymyr Zelenskyy Meets with Donald Tusk

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Prime Minister of Poland Donald Tusk.

The Head of State thanked Poland for its defense support and expressed gratitude to Donald Tusk for participating in the Ukraine Recovery Conference. President Zelenskyy also highlighted Poland’s participation – along with the European Commission, the European Investment Bank, France, Germany, and Italy – in the newly established European Flagship Fund for the Reconstruction of Ukraine. This initiative will help attract major investments to support the country’s recovery.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy also expressed hope that Poland will remain a key logistical and transit hub for international assistance to Ukraine.

The leaders discussed the battlefield situation and Ukraine’s defense needs, recent Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities, and the urgent necessity to strengthen air defense.

The President emphasized that developing the defense industry is Ukraine’s priority. Our country is interested in cooperating with Poland within the EU’s SAFE instrument and other programs for the joint procurement and production of weapons and military equipment.

 

Ukraine and the IAEA Strengthen Cooperation on the Country’s Energy Recovery

On the sidelines of the Ukraine Recovery Conference taking place in Rome, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi.

The Head of State thanked the IAEA and Rafael Grossi personally for the support and readiness to assist. The President emphasized that protecting nuclear energy infrastructure is critically important for Ukraine’s resilience and security.

In the presence of President Zelenskyy, Ukraine’s Minister of Energy German Galushchenko and Rafael Grossi signed a Memorandum of Understanding between the IAEA and the Government of Ukraine on cooperation in support of Ukraine’s recovery.

The document states, in particular, that the IAEA will serve as a guarantor of safety during the completion of additional power units at the Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant. It also confirms support for the exploration, extraction, and production of uranium resources in Ukraine – an important step toward strengthening the country’s energy security.

 

https://www.president.gov.ua/news/