Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is heading his country’s delegation, with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk among the attendees.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is hosting the summit, which aims to establish a clear roadmap for rebuilding Ukraine’s infrastructure, economy, and energy sector.
Ukrainian analyst Oleh Saakjan noted that despite the ongoing war, Kyiv must work to restore its economy, highlighting defense, manufacturing, and agriculture as sectors of interest to Western investors.
Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome, Italy, 10 July 2025. Photo: VINCENZO LIVIERI
Ahead of the talks, Zelensky met with U.S. representative Keith Kellogg to discuss military cooperation and strengthening air defenses, as well as with Pope Leo XIV at the papal residence in Castel Gandolfo.
A handout photo made available by the Vatican Media shows Pope Leo XIV meeting Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky (R) at the papal residence of Castel Gandolfo, Italy, 09 July 2025. Photo: VATICAN MEDIA/PAP/EPA
Russia escalates attacks as Ukraine urges faster Western support
On Thursday morning, President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia launched a massive 10-hour overnight assault on Ukraine using 18 missiles and around 400 drones, killing two and injuring 16 in Kyiv.
The politician called the strike a clear escalation and urged Western partners to speed up air defense support and invest in drone production.
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Source: IAR/X/@ZelenskyyUa