Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for an "acceleration" of sanctions against Russia after his country was again bombed by Moscow overnight, Italian news agency ANSA reported.
“This night Russia launched a massive combined attack that lasted almost 10 hours – 18 missiles, including ballistic, and about 400 combat drones“, Zelensky wrote on “Telegram”.
He is currently in Rome for a two-day meeting dedicated to the reconstruction of Ukraine.
“This is a clear escalation of terror by Russia. This means that acceleration is needed – We need to move faster with sanctions and pressure Russia to bear the consequences of its terror. Partners should also be faster with investments in arms production“, the Ukrainian president stressed.
Yesterday, Zelensky was received in an audience by Pope Leo XIV and met with Italian President Sergio Mattarella.
“The Pope confirmed his readiness to receive representatives of Russia and Ukraine in the Vatican for negotiations“, the Holy See said in a statement after the meeting between the pontiff and Zelensky.
The American pontiff spoke with the Ukrainian president about “the ongoing conflict and the urgent need to find a just and lasting peace“, and during the meeting the two “confirmed the importance of dialogue as the preferred path to ending hostilities“.
Italian President Mattarella stressed that Italy's support for Ukraine remains firm. "You have our great friendship and Italy's full support for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. Our position is and remains absolutely firm, and I would like to express my admiration for the behavior of the Ukrainian people, which reinforces our conviction of full support and respect for your country," Mattarella said, welcoming Zelensky.