Zelensky in Rome: Ukraine Recovery Conference and Meeting with Pope Francis

Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome

• 💡 The annual conference in Rome aims to boost support for Ukraine and mobilize investment, including from the private sector, for its reconstruction and modernization.
• 🎯 Key areas for support include the power grid and the defense sector, though a broader scope of reconstruction is being addressed.
• 📈 The World Bank estimates that Ukraine will need over $500 billion for reconstruction over the next decade.
• 🤝 Approximately 2,000 companies, including 500 Italian ones, are present to explore investment opportunities, with the idea that early involvement will be advantageous post-war.

Key Figures and Discussions

• 🎤 The conference was opened by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
• 🇪🇺 Notable attendees included EU chief Ursula von der Leyen and the German Chancellor, underscoring the international focus on Ukraine's future.

Zelensky's Meetings in Rome

• 🇻🇦 President Zelensky met with Pope Francis on Wednesday, who pledged support for Ukraine, peace talks, and a just and lasting peace.
• 🕊️ The Pope's support also extended to efforts for the release of prisoners and the recovery of children separated from their families.
• 🇺🇸 Zelensky was also scheduled to meet with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and a US envoy for Ukraine and Russia.

Ongoing Conflict and Reconstruction Needs

• 💥 Despite the focus on recovery, Ukraine continues to face bombardments, with recent large-scale attacks involving over 700 drones and missiles.
• 🌍 The ongoing war highlights the critical need for continued support and investment to rebuild the war-torn country.