Zelenskyy shares details of his meeting with Italian president

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reported that he had a "good meeting" with Italian President Sergio Mattarella.

During the meeting, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the Italian president for "Italy’s steadfast support of Ukraine" and its "clear and principled stance regarding just and lasting peace".

Zelenskyy emphasised that Ukraine’s integration into existing effective security structures is not only the most efficient solution but also the most economically advantageous for all partners.

"We also discussed the sensitive issue of the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia – thousands of young lives whose futures have been shattered by Russia’s war. We have to restore their futures and do everything possible to ensure they, like all children, can live happily," Zelenskyy wrote on X (Twitter).

He thanked Italy for its care and support for Ukrainian orphans currently in the country due to Russia's war.

"Additionally, I extended an invitation to President Mattarella to visit Kyiv, and I look forward to continuing this strong partnership," he added. 

Zelenskyy had earlier met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The meeting focused on "strengthening security, addressing global developments and preparing for this year’s Ukraine Recovery Conference to be held in Rome".

The meeting between Zelenskyy and Meloni was held immediately after the Ukraine Defence Contact Group meeting (also known as the Ramstein Group).