Three years after the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, a new stage in the conflict begins, said Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni after meetings in Washington between US President Donald Trump, his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders, ANSA reported. Guarantees for the security of Kiev were agreed in the US capital, as well as an upcoming meeting between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, BTA reports.
„Today, a new phase begins after three years, thanks to Trump and the stalemate on the ground. We will discuss security guarantees to make sure that something like this does not happen again“, said Meloni during the talks at the White House.
According to Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, the most appropriate place for the Zelensky-Putin meeting is Geneva.
“Italy supports holding the talks there because Switzerland has always worked to build peace. Rome would also be a good option, desired by the Americans, Ukrainians and others, but the problem with the International Criminal Court (the issued arrest warrant for Putin - note ANSA) makes this more complicated. I think Geneva is the best place“, commented Tajani.
ANSA notes that the talks in Washington showed how highly Trump values Meloni, with whom he maintains friendly relations. In introducing the European leaders, the US president described her as a “great leader and an inspiration to many“.
“Although she is young, she has ruled Italy for a relatively long time. A country where prime ministers usually don't last long. And she will rule for a long time“, said Trump.