Italian PM Highlights India's Role in Resolving Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized India's potential role in mediating the Russia-Ukraine conflict after meeting Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. She reiterated Italy's unwavering support for Ukraine and stressed the importance of international law, while acknowledging China's and India's positions in fostering peace.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni asserted on Saturday the pivotal role India can play in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict after her meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Meloni emphasized, according to Italian Government TV cited by Reuters, that both China and India have significant roles in ending the conflict, but underlined the necessity of not abandoning Ukraine. Following her bilateral meeting with Zelensky on the sidelines of the TEHA Forum at Lake Como, Meloni reiterated Italy's staunch support for Kyiv in its struggle against Russian invasion, as reported by ANSA.

Describing the 40-minute meeting, Meloni told reporters it was productive, emphasizing that ignoring international law would lead to further global chaos. Meloni conveyed a similar message to her Chinese counterparts, while affirming Italy's immutable support for Ukraine. Her office reiterated that backing Ukraine remains a top agenda for Italy's G7 Presidency, and highlighted the upcoming Ukraine Recovery Conference in Italy in 2025.

They discussed Ukraine's urgent needs amid ongoing Russian offensives, particularly in view of the approaching winter. Meloni's statement came after Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested that India, China, and Brazil could mediate potential peace talks, acknowledging their sincere efforts in resolving the conflict.

Putin's remarks followed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's latest visits to Moscow and Ukraine, where Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to peace and its stance on the Russia-Ukraine war.

(With inputs from agencies.)