Meloni hears Zelensky: European unity, energy aid, and push for 90 billion for Ukraine

Giorgia Meloni and Volodymyr Zelensky had a telephone conversation today focused on the path towards "a just and lasting peace for Ukraine" and the next steps, also "in light of the current developments in the Middle East crisis".

This was announced by Palazzo Chigi, which stated that "the conversation allowed for an in-depth exchange of views on the progress of the process" and the two leaders "reiterated how essential it is, especially at this stage, to have a unity of views among European and American partners and to recognize the European contribution to the peace process, the outcome of which touches on fundamental European interests and is crucial for the stability and security of the continent".

During the conversation, Zelensky "took the opportunity to thank Italy again for sending emergency supplies to support the Ukrainian energy sector".

Meloni, the Presidency of the Council further reports, "renewed Italy's closeness to the Ukrainian nation, assuring that Italy will maintain a leading role in the country's reconstruction process".

On the sidelines of the contact, the Ukrainian president stated: "We discussed with the Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, the situation regarding Iran and the challenges in the oil and fuel market due to the actions of the Iranian regime. We also exchanged details of our contacts with the leaders of countries that are currently under attack from Iran. There should be closer coordination in Europe regarding the overall situation".

Zelensky also emphasized the necessity for the decision regarding the 90 billion euro credit for Ukraine to finally come into effect. These funds should ensure our resilience in defending against Russian aggression and are actually backed by frozen Russian assets. And finally, he referred to the Paralympic Games: "This is not the first time this year that principle-less decisions have been made by such international committees. Thank you Giorgia for the common position on this issue and for all the help, especially for the winter energy support and for Italy's decision to continue helping Ukraine this year".