President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy had another phone call with Prime Minister of Italy Mario Draghi. The main topic of the negotiations was the sham referenda organized by the Russian aggressor in the occupied territories.
The interlocutors discussed in detail the appropriate reaction to sham referenda.
"They are worthless and do not change reality. The territorial integrity of Ukraine will be restored. And our reaction to Russia's recognition of their results will be very tough," the Head of State emphasized.
Emphasis was placed on the need for a firm reaction from the world's leading states in the event of the Kremlin's recognition of sham referenda. Separately, the leaders noted the importance of building a system of effective security guarantees for Ukraine with the involvement of key partners of our country, in particular Italy.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy informed the interlocutor about the situation at the front, emphasizing the vital need for Ukraine to further strengthen the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine for the successful return of Ukrainian territories.
While discussing the defense support of Ukraine, the parties exchanged views on the possibility of continuation of such assistance from Italy, which is extremely important, in particular, for the protection of citizens and civil infrastructure.
The President of Ukraine separately noted the important personal role of Mario Draghi and expressed gratitude for the active support of the Italian Republic for the independence and sovereignty of our state.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy also noted the personal role of the Prime Minister of Italy in the formation of a new quality of Ukrainian-Italian relations.
"We laid the foundation for their further effective development for the benefit of the peoples of both states," the President emphasized.
He separately thanked Mario Draghi for supporting our country on the way to European integration and granting the status of a candidate country.
"As a sign of our gratitude, you have been awarded the Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise of the 1st degree. On the Walk of the Brave in Kyiv, among the names of political leaders who have supported Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation, your name is now also included. I am hopeful to have the opportunity to meet with you in the near future in Kyiv and personally present a high state award," said the Head of State.
During the meeting, the parties also expressed confidence that Italy would maintain a high level of support for Ukraine even after the formation of a new government following the recent parliamentary elections in the Italian Republic.