President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Italy’s Minister of Defense Guido Crosetto who is visiting Ukraine.
The President expressed gratitude to the Italian government and people for the military support of Ukraine, as well as Italy’s efforts under its G7 presidency, particularly in strengthening sanctions against the aggressor state.
President Zelensky specifically highlighted the approval of the 10th military aid package and Italy’s participation in coalitions within the Ukraine Defense Contact Group.
“I would like to thank you, Minister, and all Italians for the decision on the 10th support package. Without the support of your society, it would have been very difficult for you to assist Ukraine. We deeply appreciate this sentiment. I witnessed it during my meetings with the Prime Minister and President. And on the streets in Rome, we always see Italian flags and Ukrainian flags next to them. We understand that there is such a sentiment. People help us a lot and believe in a peaceful Ukraine, and we are all working on it,” Volodymyr Zelensky said.
The meeting addressed defense support for Ukraine, including bolstering air defense, training Ukrainian soldiers and technical personnel in Italy, and enhancing collaboration between defense companies. Discussions also covered joint production and localizing it in Ukraine. The President emphasized the importance of investing in Ukraine’s defense industry, particularly in the production of drones.
Another key topic was security guarantees for Ukraine. President Zelensky stressed that the most effective guarantee would be Ukraine’s NATO membership, as this step would pave the way toward a just and lasting peace for all of Europe.
Volodymyr Zelensky and Guido Crosetto also discussed preparations for the Ukraine Recovery Conference scheduled to take place in Rome on July 10–11. The President invited representatives of the Italian defense industry to participate in the event.
The Italian Minister of Defense reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting Ukrainians in their fight for Ukraine, freedom and international law.
“I came here to discuss the 11th support package, as the 10th has already been approved. As we have already discussed, now is the moment – perhaps the most critical moment in the past three years – to increase support. I have said this in your presence during meetings within NATO and the EU, and I repeat it today. I will return home with tasks to carry out to ensure we move forward,” he said.
Guido Crosetto also shared that during his visit, he honored the memory of Ukraine’s fallen defenders.
“For me, this was not merely a diplomatic duty. Looking at the photographs of the deceased, I felt even more determined to fulfill what must be done: to support Ukraine in this war. Thank you very much for everything you have done. Please know that you can count on Italy, on the Italian government, and on the Italian people,” the Minister emphasized.
