Italy announces signing of agreement on reconstruction of Odesa

Italy has announced the signing of an agreement with Ukraine and the UN cultural agency UNESCO on the reconstruction of Odesa, in particular, the reconstruction of the Transfiguration Cathedral, which was damaged by a Russian missile strike.

As reported by Reuters, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said that the agreement would be signed on 15 May.

"On 15 May we will sign off on a deal with Kyiv and UNESCO here in Rome for the reconstruction of Odesa and its cathedral," Tajani told a question time session in the lower house of parliament.

Italy and UNESCO signed an agreement in Kyiv in February to provide €500 thousands for the reconstruction of the roof of the Transfiguration Cathedral in Odesa.

"As the G7 presidency, we continue to work for a just peace," Tajani said.

He also added that supporting Ukraine's energy system is a priority for Italy.

Russia launched a missile attack on Odesa, which severely damaged the Transfiguration Cathedral, in July 2023.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni immediately stated that her country was ready to contribute to the reconstruction of the cathedral in Odesa.