President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Rome on April 15 for talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, continuing his diplomatic tour across Europe.
During the visit, Zelensky underscored the need to strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses and said that Kyiv and Rome are “working out the specifics” of an upcoming drone deal.
“Italy is very interested in developing joint production, especially in the drone sector, in which Ukraine has become a leading nation in recent years,” Meloni said during a joint press conference with Zelensky after talks at the Chigi Palace.
Zelensky urged closer air defense cooperation among European partners, offering Ukraine’s expertise in countering drones and missiles.
“We all need a truly effective defense system that can protect against any threats. War has changed,” Zelensky said.
Meloni reiterated Italy’s support for Ukraine and called for increased economic pressure on Russia, specifically through the EU’s 20th sanctions package, currently blocked by Hungary.
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