A high-level international conference opened in Rome today, bringing together European leaders, U.S. officials, and global partners to strengthen Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction in the wake of ongoing Russian aggression. The two-day event aims to address both the immediate humanitarian crisis and the long-term rebuilding of war-torn Ukraine.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen jointly inaugurated the conference. They were joined by several European heads of state, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The presence of former U.S. National Security Adviser Keith Kellogg, representing the United States as a special envoy, underscored Washington's continued commitment.
President Zelenskiy held a separate meeting with Kellogg on the sidelines of the conference. Discussions focused on accelerating U.S. weapons support, including the potential delivery of Patriot missile systems, and expanding joint defense manufacturing in Ukraine. Sanctions on Russia, particularly targeting the energy sector, were also on the agenda.
The conference comes amid increasing concern over Ukraine's economic future. The European Union faces a projected \$19 billion funding gap for Ukraine’s budget in 2026. Discussions in Rome are exploring ways to bridge this gap, including the use of off-budget military grants, early disbursement of G7-backed loans, and tapping into frozen Russian state assets.
The World Bank estimates that Ukraine will require at least €500 billion for reconstruction. EU officials have signaled readiness to unlock more resources, but complex legal and financial mechanisms must be addressed to ensure rapid disbursement.
In parallel with recovery talks, the EU is also advancing its broader defense strategy. President von der Leyen emphasized the urgency of the "Readiness 2030" plan, aimed at mobilizing up to €800 billion to modernize Europe’s defense capabilities in response to the geopolitical threat posed by Russia.
Security concerns remain high, as the conference coincided with fresh Russian missile and drone strikes across Ukraine. Kyiv was hit early Wednesday, with at least two civilians killed and several injured. Additional attacks targeted the Donetsk and Kharkiv regions, prompting evacuation orders from local authorities.
President Zelenskiy also held a separate meeting with Pope Leo at Castel Gandolfo, where the Vatican reiterated its offer to host future peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. While no immediate diplomatic breakthrough was reported, the gesture was seen as a symbolic push for dialogue amid ongoing hostilities.
The Rome conference is expected to conclude on July 11 with a joint communiqué outlining financial commitments, a timeline for aid deployment, and coordinated strategies for Ukraine’s recovery and defense. The gathering marks a crucial moment for Ukraine’s allies to demonstrate unity and determination in the face of continued conflict.