Meloni condemns 'brutal' Russian attacks on Ukraine, urges international action

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Tuesday called Russia's latest aggression against Ukraine "unacceptable." She stated that the international community cannot "look the other way" as Moscow launches "new brutal" attacks on civilians and historical sites in Kyiv.

"I believe solidarity is fundamental, especially when Russian attacks and aggressions do not stop even before millennia-old symbols of Christianity and UNESCO heritage sites," Meloni said at a joint press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Rome. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to defending international law for a "just and lasting peace."

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I believe solidarity is fundamental, especially when Russian attacks and aggressions do not stop even before millennia-old symbols of Christianity and UNESCO heritage sites.

The Russian military launched over 60 missiles and numerous drones at the Ukrainian capital overnight. The massive assault reportedly struck the Dormition Cathedral, a significant church for both the Orthodox faith and Ukrainian history.

Meloni and Takaichi met before traveling to the G7 summit in France. They shared "a deep reflection on the major international crises," according to the Italian leader. "Firmness in supporting Kyiv and the effort for peace will obviously be central elements at the G7 summit, where we will reiterate the commitment to reviving the negotiation process to end the conflict," Meloni added.

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Firmness in supporting Kyiv and the effort for peace will obviously be central elements at the G7 summit, where we will reiterate the commitment to reviving the negotiation process to end the conflict.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated that during their meeting, both leaders discussed the situations in the Middle East, Ukraine, and East Asia as "special strategic partners" to maintain a coordinated approach. Beyond the war in Eastern Europe, they expressed satisfaction with the recent announcement of a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran. They also reaffirmed the "fundamental importance" of reopening the Strait of Hormuz and defending freedom of navigation.

Japan's adherence to a joint statement by Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France on Iran, which includes deploying a mission to ensure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, further reflected this alignment. "I hope that, through the rapid and effective implementation of this agreement, peace and stability can be brought to the entire Middle East region, so we will continue to work in close contact on this issue," Takaichi said regarding the agreement with Tehran.

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I hope that, through the rapid and effective implementation of this agreement, peace and stability can be brought to the entire Middle East region, so we will continue to work in close contact on this issue.