ROME

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Saturday visited Rome and met Italy’s president and prime minister.


"An important visit for approaching victory of Ukraine!" he said on Twitter as he arrived in the Italian capital.

According to information obtained from the Italian presidency sources, both Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni confirmed Italy's full support for Ukraine during their meeting with Zelenskyy in Rome.

This is Zelensky's first visit to the Italian capital since Russia's war against Ukraine began on Feb. 24, 2022.

He first met with Mattarella at the Quirinal Palace, where they discussed the effectiveness of economic sanctions against Russia, the situation of the Zaporizhia Nuclear Power Plant, combating fake news across Europe, bombings of civilian structures, the abduction of Ukrainian children, Ukraine's reconstruction, and its EU integration prospects.

The Ukrainian president later met with Meloni at the Chigi Palace, where Meloni reaffirmed Italy's comprehensive support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence.

Following their bilateral and delegation-level meetings, the two leaders are expected to hold a joint press statement.

Zelenskyy will also visit the Vatican City to meet with Pope Francis, the spiritual leader and head of state of the Catholic Church.

Tight security measures have been implemented in Rome with 1,000 police officers deployed and the closure of Rome's airspace.

Dozens of Ukrainians gathered at Barberini Square to show their support for the Zelenskyy along his route.
After concluding his visit to Italy, Zelenskyy is expected to travel to Germany’s capital Berlin.

*Writing by Aysu Bicer