Italian premier, Ukrainian president discuss ways to avert global food crisis

ROME

Italy's Prime Minister Mario Draghi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war in a phone conversation on Friday, addressing possible solutions to the food crisis generated by the conflict.

Draghi’s office confirmed the call, earlier announced by Zelenskyy on Twitter, and said the two leaders explored options to resume wheat exports from Ukrainian ports.

Draghi assured the Ukrainian leader of Italy’s support in coordination with the rest of the European Union.

The two evaluated ways to restart grain exports to avert the food crisis threatening the world’s poorest countries.

Zelenskyy said on Twitter that he informed Draghi of the situation on the frontlines and asked for additional military support from Kyiv’s partners.

The Ukrainian leader added that he raised the question of fuel supplies while stressing that “we have to unblock Ukrainian ports together.”

Draghi’s office said Zelenskyy appreciated the Italian government’s efforts and agreed to continue discussions with the Italian prime minister.

On Thursday, Draghi spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin, pushing him to take steps to stave off a global food crisis that would have devastating consequences.