No fly zones and snipers: Rome welcomes the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, who is visiting Italy for the first time since the start of the Russian invasion, under maximum security measures . The leader, who landed at Ciampino airport and was welcomed by Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, was the first to meet with the President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella.
«An honor to have you here in Rome – Mattarella said on receiving him at the Quirinale -. I asked to meet her again after our conversation years ago even if in this different condition, we are fully at your side . Welcome President". The Head of State has often expressed himself openly on the need to support Ukraine in the war against the invader also by sending arms .
PALAZZO CHIGI – After the face to face with Mattarella, the one with Prime Minister Meloni, which lasted 70 minutes.
"Italy, in collaboration with the main Allies, will continue to provide the necessary support, including military support, so that a just peace can be reached for Ukraine, which can only exist if Russia ceases hostilities", reiterated the president of the Council during the meeting. At the same time, it is explained, "Italy will continue to support a rigorous application of the sanctions which are one of the main tools against the aggressor, together with the financial and military ones, to bring an end to hostilities".
VATICAN - Zelensky also had a 40-minute conversation with Pope Francis. During the face-to-face meeting - the Vatican spokesmen say - "both agreed on the need to continue humanitarian efforts in support of the population. The Pope, in particular, underlined the urgent need for 'gestures of humanity' towards the most fragile people, innocent victims of the conflict".
IN GERMANY – At the end of the day, a TV interview for Zelensky on Bruno Vespa's Porta a Porta show.
Then for the Ukrainian president a stop in Germany. And even Berlin has in fact strengthened its security measures, without however officially confirming the imminent visit of the Ukrainian president who, according to press rumors, will be received on Sunday morning by the chancellor Olaf Scholz and the president Frank-Walter Steinmeier. To then go to Aachen to receive the Charlemagne Prize bestowed this year on the Ukrainian people and their president.
(Unioneonline/D)