Ministero della Difesa Test

​"Todays' meeting confirms the determination of the Countries that support the resistance of the Ukrainian people. Italia has supported Ukraine, both politically and practically, since the very beginning of the invasion, by implementing sanctions against Russia and providing military aid. We were and will remain on Kyiv's side to end the aggression and achieve a true peace, i.e. a fair peace, in compliance with international law". Defence Minister Lorenzo Guerini declared today during the sixth meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in Brussels. The Contact Group was promoted by the US Secretary of Defense to foster regular discussion and coordination among countries (over 40) that have joined support activities in favour of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

The Group's meeting, which included updates on the situation in the battlefield, concluded with the final remarks of attending Defence Ministers. Within this context, Minister Guerini reiterated his satisfaction "for the deep cooperation and unity of intent which characterize the Contact Group, that succeeded in fielding a firm response to Putin's insane and reckless attack".

In his speech, the minister also underscored how clear is  "the need to lay the foundations for long-term support which, regardless of future scenarios, must continue to be consistent with the expectations of the Ukrainian people and must include different dimensions, not only the Defence".

Subsequently, Minister Guerini underscored the role Italy has played in this relevant support activity:"We have delivered three packages of military aid and will complete delivery of the fourth by the end of the month. After my visit to Kyiv, I have signed a decree on a fifth aid package. Faced with the risk of a war of attrition, we must in fact continue to maintain a cohesive, firm position in support of Ukraine, matching the diplomatic action with the material support necessary to foster peace".

Moreover, the Minister reiterated Italy's availability to integrate the training activities for an effective and safe use of material donated to the UAF, presently conducted by the Italian defence on a bilateral basis within, for example, "an EU mission, closely coordinated at the international level".

Finally, Minister Guerini expressed his satisfaction for the "cohesion and solidarity shown by the Alliance in defending its shared values".

The minister also expressed his "pride for representing Italy in this solemn mission", then added: "I feel I can assure that Italy will continue to stand by its Allies and Partners to safeguard the principles of democracy and equality that characterize the West".