As part of the official visit to Italy, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with President of the Italian Republic Sergio Mattarella.
The head of the Ukrainian state expressed gratitude for Italy's consistent stance in supporting Ukraine to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
"Unfortunately, I don't have time to shake hands with everyone, hug them, thank them for the support that Italy provided to Ukraine, our people, displaced persons, from the first day of the full-scale aggression, to thank them for such a warm attitude towards Ukrainians," Zelenskyy said.
The President of Ukraine thanked Italy for the comprehensive assistance our country receives from it.
"We are extremely grateful to Italy for the important defense assistance that enables Ukraine to resist Russian aggression. The key to our success on the battlefield is timely receipt of the necessary assistance," the Head of State said.
Zelenskyy expressed hope for further extensive support from Italy. In addition, he noted the need for further strengthening of international pressure on the aggressor country, in particular, via new sanctions.
"In this war, Italy was and remains on the right side, on the side of truth. We are moving towards victory. Because victory also means peace for our country. I am sure that Italian society fully shares our attitude, our just struggle against Russia's unprovoked war," the President said.
The leaders of the two countries dwelled on Ukraine's efforts to restore peace based on the Ukrainian Peace Formula.
"I highly appreciate Italy's readiness to join the implementation of our Peace Formula. I count on Italy's participation in the Global Peace Summit, which will take place this year," Zelenskyy said.
The head of the Ukrainian state also praised Italy's support for international efforts to hold Russia accountable for crimes in Ukraine. He specially thanked Italy for its support for the relevant work of the International Criminal Court and participation in the Core Group on the creation of a Special Tribunal on the crime of aggression against Ukraine.
