BRUSSELS

Italy is not at war with Russia and seeks to bring Moscow to the negotiating table for a "just and lasting peace" in Ukraine, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Tuesday.

Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine, Tajani stressed that Rome's priority is the respect of international law while standing firmly with Kyiv in defending its sovereignty and freedom.

"I want to make this point very clear: We are not at war with Russia. Our goal is to bring Russia to the negotiation table for a just peace. We are fully convinced that the path to peace is still possible," he said.

"It's time to start direct negotiations with Ukraine. Italy strongly supports this political process. We all need to support it. This is the key to end this conflict," he added.

Tajani condemned recent violations of Polish, Romanian and Estonian airspace as "unacceptable," warning against escalation.

A suspected Russian drone strike Sept. 10 hit Polish territory, prompting NATO to deploy fighter jets. Similar accusations were made by Romania and Estonia and were denied by Russia.

Tajani also reiterated concerns about safety at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant and expressed support for International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi's efforts to ensure its security.