Italy poised to mediate peace talks for Ukraine ceasefire
After discussions with US President Donald Trump, Italy has expressed its willingness to assist in establishing contacts that might lead to a ceasefire in Ukraine. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasised that Rome is prepared to work towards a fair and lasting peace.
What do you need to know?
- Italy has declared its readiness to facilitate contacts to achieve a ceasefire and lasting peace in Ukraine. This announcement followed discussions with US President Donald Trump.
- Key European leaders participated in the talks, including French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
- Pope Leo XIV has offered the Vatican as a venue for meetings between representatives of Ukraine and Russia, a proposal welcomed by the Italian government.
"Work is underway to immediately start negotiations between the parties that can lead to a ceasefire as soon as possible and build the conditions for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine," read the statement issued by Rome.
Vatican as a place for peace talks?
The Italian government has responded positively to Pope Leo XIV's offer for the Vatican to serve as a meeting place for representatives of Ukraine and Russia. The Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, confirmed that the Holy See is ready to host participants in the talks, which could contribute to reaching an agreement.
"Italy is ready to do its part to facilitate contacts and work for peace," the statement declared.
The discussions with Donald Trump also included leaders from France, Germany, Finland, the European Commission, and Ukraine.
Trump's talks with Putin
The US President announced that his conversation with Vladimir Putin was very productive, resulting in Russia and Ukraine agreeing to immediately commence negotiations on a ceasefire. He noted that the conditions would be negotiated between the two parties.
Vladimir Putin described his conversation with Trump as "frank and substantive." He highlighted that the memorandum between Russia and Ukraine might include aspects of a ceasefire and principles for resolving the conflict.
