Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenski discussed Kiev’s “Victory Plan” aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine War. During a press conference following their meeting in Rome, Meloni stated, “Our support aims to put Ukraine in a position to build a peace table. This will not be a peace table that implies ‘surrender,’ as some cowardly suggest.”

Zelenski, who visited London and Paris before arriving in Rome last night as part of his European tour, was warmly welcomed by Meloni at the historical Villa Pamphili residence. Both leaders, after their discussions, addressed the media in the evening.

Host Prime Minister Meloni emphasized that their support for Kiev in the Russia-Ukraine War is comprehensive and that they are ready to provide this support as needed by Ukraine. Highlighting the importance of supporting Ukraine’s defense industry, Meloni reiterated, “Our support aims to put Ukraine in a position to build a peace table. This will not be a peace table that implies ‘surrender,’ as some cowardly suggest. This requires military support. The President came here to present ideas on how to build a path to fair peace that we all need. We listened to the most urgent needs he explained to us.”

Meloni added, “Zelenski and I agreed on the importance of involving international actors who can persuade Moscow to negotiate reliably around a table.” She also announced that they will host a conference in Rome on 10-11 July 2025 for Ukraine’s reconstruction.

Guest leader Zelenski expressed that he had a very productive meeting with Prime Minister Meloni, stating, “We are presenting the details of our Victory Plan in Ukraine to European leaders to bring a fair end to this war. I am grateful to Giorgia and the Italian government for their interest in our plan, its details, and the entire strategy.” Zelenski also mentioned the world’s acknowledgment of how much Russia ignores diplomacy.

Zelenski stated, “We are working towards achieving peace as soon as possible, and I would like to thank Giorgia Meloni for organizing the reconstruction conference in Italy. We also discussed the preparation of a new defense package.”