New Ukraine Assistance Package Announced by Italy

Italy's Support for Ukraine

According to 5 канал — Економіка: A phone conversation between Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Ukraine's Andrii Sybiha took place to mark the 35th anniversary of Ukraine's independence. Tajani used the occasion to reiterate Italy's backing for Kyiv in security, defense, and reconstruction, announced a fresh aid package, and strongly condemned Russia's continued strikes across the country.

The two ministers also addressed the Black Sea's and the Mediterranean's significance for global food security and Ukrainian grain exports. Tajani expressed Italy's willingness to collaborate with Kyiv, including by exploring cooperation formats with MED9+ initiatives concerning the Strait of Hormuz. He further stated that Italy would maintain maximal pressure on Moscow, citing Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's participation in the Coalition of the Willing meeting in Kyiv as proof.

Strategic Importance of the Black Sea and Continued Support

Tajani highlighted the strategic role of the Black Sea and the broader Mediterranean in ensuring global food security and uninterrupted grain shipments from Ukraine, saying:

"I stressed the strategic role of the Black Sea and the entire Mediterranean for global food security and the continuity of grain exports from Ukraine. We will keep working to preserve maximum pressure on Moscow." - Antonio Tajani

He also confirmed that Italy has already allocated roughly 3.2 billion euros to support Ukraine's restoration and rebuilding efforts.

In the run-up to Independence Day, the Italian Foreign Ministry building in Rome will be lit up with the colors of the Ukrainian flag on August 24. Earlier, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks with Giorgia Meloni centered on boosting air defense capabilities. Nevertheless, Meloni has told European and American partners that Italy will not send troops to Ukraine under security guarantee arrangements.

"I reaffirmed the government's complete support for achieving a just and lasting peace as quickly as possible. Italy continues to work for Ukraine's security, reconstruction, and defense, including preparing a new Italian aid package on top of backing EU sanctions." - Antonio Tajani

This exchange between the foreign ministers underscores Italy's unwavering stance in favor of Ukraine amid Russia's ongoing aggression. By emphasizing the Black Sea's importance to food security, Italy signals a desire for closer cooperation with Ukraine, which could bring mutual benefits in tackling global challenges. Lighting up the ministry building in Rome with the Ukrainian flag also serves as a powerful symbol of Italian solidarity with Ukraine in these difficult times. This latest pledge is part of a broader Western effort to sustain support for Kyiv.