Italy to Host Ukraine Reconstruction Conference

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have agreed to organize a conference in Italy next year, focusing on post-war reconstruction efforts in Ukraine. 

The plan for the 2025 conference was discussed during Zelensky's visit to Italy, where he participated in the annual Ambrosetti Forum on Lake Como.

Zelensky also met with business leaders to explore opportunities for collaboration in rebuilding Ukraine. The initiative is part of broader international efforts to assist Ukraine in recovering from the devastation caused by the war.

Zelensky emphasized the importance of providing Ukraine with long-range weapons and air defense systems, a request he also made during a meeting with the Ukraine Defense Contact Group at Ramstein Air Base in Germany.

Ukraine has consistently urged its Western allies to support military operations aimed at countering Russian missile attacks, while some officials argue about the strategic value of such actions.

Prime Minister Meloni expressed Italy's commitment to supporting Ukraine, including organizing the reconstruction conference and assisting in building essential infrastructure, such as hospitals. 

Italy has positioned itself as a key ally, playing an active role in Ukraine’s defense and recovery efforts.

Zelensky’s visit to Italy followed his participation in the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting in Germany.

The gathering brought together key defense officials, including US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, to discuss further military aid and strategic support for Ukraine.