Diplomatic Dialogues: Meloni and Zelenskiy Discuss Path to Peace

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy engaged in discussions relating to the ongoing peace negotiations between the U.S. and Russia. Meloni reiterated Italy’s support for Ukraine amidst recent strikes and announced aid for Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. These talks precede Zelenskiy’s scheduled visits to European capitals.

In a phone call on Sunday, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy discussed the peace process ahead of Zelenskiy's planned visits to key European capitals. This diplomatic effort coincides with U.S. President Donald Trump's outgoing envoy's remarks indicating that a deal to end the four-year-long conflict is 'really close,' pending resolution of two major issues. Meanwhile, the Kremlin insists on radical changes to ongoing proposals.

Following indiscriminate Russian strikes on civilian targets, Meloni assured Ukraine of Italy's solidarity by announcing the dispatch of emergency supplies aimed at supporting Ukraine's energy infrastructure. The Italian government plans to ship generators donated by Italian companies in the coming weeks to help stabilize the energy crisis.

Meloni welcomed Ukraine's willingness to partake in good-faith negotiations and pressed Moscow to adopt a similar stance. Zelenskiy's upcoming meetings with European leaders are part of broader consultations to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

(With inputs from agencies.)