Zelensky in Italy pushed for a faster delivery of the air defense package.

President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Rome on Thursday, January 9, where he met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The main topics of discussion included strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities, particularly its air defense, and preparations for the international Conference on the Reconstruction of Ukraine, as reported by the Office of the President.   During the meeting, Zelensky expressed gratitude to Italy for its support, including the approval of the tenth military aid package. Special attention was given to the transfer of additional air defense systems, particularly the SAMP/T systems developed jointly by Italy and France. Ukraine anticipates an increase in missile supplies for these systems, which is crucial for defense against Russian attacks.   "Right now, we want to expedite certain details from this package. We have semi-Italian and semi-French air defense systems SAMP/T. The number of missiles is very important to us, and we are counting on it. There is a corresponding package of missiles that we are receiving, and there is another package that needs to be finalized so that it reaches us," the president stated.   He also highlighted the active efforts in preparing for the international Conference on the Reconstruction of Ukraine (URC-2025), which will take place on July 10-11 in Rome.   "Our teams have started working on the current reconstruction conference, especially regarding cultural heritage. Here we primarily rely on Italy. We are also collaborating with UNESCO and will be working separately with France. I want Italy to make a significant contribution to the reconstruction of our historical heritage. They are very professional in this area," the president emphasized.   Zelensky and Meloni also focused on supporting Ukraine's path to European Union membership.  

See the photo gallery: Zelensky in Italy expedited the air defense package

    Recall that last week, Meloni met with the elected U.S. President Donald Trump, with whom she has a good relationship. According to media reports, they also discussed Ukraine.   Not worse than Patriot: military assesses the SAMP-T system