Meloni and Zelenskyy discuss talks with Russia and situation in Middle East

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have exchanged views on the ongoing negotiations with Russia and the United States regarding possible parameters for ending the war, as well as on the situation in the Middle East.

Source: the website of the President of Ukraine and press release from Meloni

Details: A press release from Meloni's office said that she and Zelenskyy had discussed progress in the process to reach a just and lasting peace for Ukraine and the next steps to be taken, including in light of recent developments in the Middle East.

Meloni and Zelenskyy agreed that it is important for Europe and the US to maintain a common position at this time and stressed the importance of recognising Europe's contribution to the peace process, as it affects fundamental European interests and the outcome is crucial for security and stability across the continent.

It was also noted that Zelenskyy thanked Meloni for an emergency package of energy assistance, while Meloni pledged that Italy would continue to play a leading role in Ukraine's reconstruction.

In his own statement, Zelenskyy said that he and Meloni had discussed the situation surrounding Iran and the consequences of Iran's actions for energy markets.

"We also exchanged details of our contacts with the leaders of countries that are currently under attacks from Iran. There must be closer coordination in Europe regarding the situation overall," Zelenskyy said.

According to Zelenskyy, they also discussed unblocking the European Union decision on a €90 billion loan for Ukraine, which has been stalled due to opposition from Hungary.

The Ukrainian president also thanked Meloni for the Italian government's opposition to the decision by the International Paralympic Committee to allow athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete under their national flags.

"I thank Giorgia for the joint position on this issue and for all the assistance, in particular for energy support during the winter and for Italy's decision to continue military assistance to Ukraine this year," Zelenskyy said.

Background: Italy has said it is preparing for a potential energy crisis due to the war in the Middle East and is also planning to transfer air defence systems to countries in the Persian Gulf.

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