Security guarantee discussions between Ukraine and Italy commenced on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's office announced in a statement.
"Ukraine has already initiated bilateral consultations with all G7 countries, including Italy. Italy is set to lead the 'Group of Seven' next year. We appreciate the significant contribution of our Italian friends to Ukraine's defense and the pursuit of a common victory. Italy providing security guarantees to Ukraine will be a crucial step towards the country's closer alignment with EU and NATO membership," Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Igor Zhovkva commented.
Back in July, the G7 countries signed a joint declaration of support for Ukraine, in which long-term security guarantees were outlined. It was then up to the individual states to provide Kiev with assistance in "very specific terms."
