The Volenterosi in Kyiv to seek a solution to the conflict. Meloni: "Italy’s unwavering support for Ukraine"

On the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence from the Soviet Union, Kyiv is hosting a new meeting of the Coalition of the Willing. The central theme of today’s summit is the plan drawn up by Ukraine, the United States and the European Union – and announced yesterday by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky – to bring an end to the war, which has now been raging for four and a half years. Kyiv is also pressing for the immediate supply of air defence systems in order to stem a wave of Russian air raids that is causing countless casualties amongst the civilian population.

The meeting is being co-chaired by the leaders of the UK, France and Germany, whilst numerous other representatives, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, are taking part via video link. The President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, is also expected in Kyiv. During the meeting, Meloni reaffirmed “Italy’s firm support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence”. The Prime Minister also expressed solidarity with Kyiv regarding the suffering caused by the ongoing Russian attacks on civilian infrastructure. “Prime Minister Meloni confirmed Italy’s commitment to humanitarian aid ahead of the winter season, which will continue with the dispatch of further generators intended specifically to support the resilience of the Ukrainian population and ensure the stability of the energy grid,” reads the statement issued by Palazzo Chigi.

Ukraine’s independence and freedom are synonymous with Europe’s independence and freedom: this is the message of the summit. “On the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence, the Ukrainian people must be in no doubt: the United Kingdom stands with you today and will continue to do so for as long as necessary.” These are the words of the new British Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, on his first international trip since taking office at Downing Street, who will today announce new measures to support the production in Ukraine of Scalp long-range missiles, capable of striking targets deep within Russian territory.

The Italian Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, echoed this sentiment, stating during an interview with radio station RTL 102.5 that “Ukraine can always count” on Italian support. Earlier in the morning, Tajani also held a telephone conversation with his Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen wrote on X: “On Ukraine’s Independence Day, Europe is demonstrating that our support is unwavering and tangible. Today we have approved €6.1 billion for the air defence and anti-missile systems, missiles, ammunition and radars that Ukraine urgently needs. As Russia steps up its attacks, we are stepping up our efforts to help Ukraine protect its people and defend its skies. Europe stands with Ukraine and we will provide what it needs, when it needs it.”

The conflict is at a particularly critical juncture, following Russian attacks that have resulted in more civilian casualties than at any other time since the early months of the invasion. According to the head of the local military administration, Ivan Fedorov, Ukrainian defence forces have intercepted 76 Russian drones in the Zaporizhzhia sector over the past 24 hours.