Russian aggression on Ukraine has
been "brutal" and Kyiv's resistance to the invasion is
legitimate, President Sergio Mattarella said in a message to
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on its national day of
independence.
"The need for an immediate cessation of hostilities for the
start of a negotiating process in view of a peaceful, just, fair
and sustainable solution for Ukraine must be affirmed yet
again," said the Italian head of state.
"I wish to renew, at this dramatic moment, the most convinced
expression of solidarity, closeness and support by the Italian
Republic for Ukraine, which is facing the brutal and unjustified
aggression by the Russian Federation, against which it is
legitimately resisting".
Matteralla went on: "Italy firmly supports the territorial
integrity, independence and freedom of your country, and
reaffirms its commitment to assist the UKrainian people also in
the humanitarian and reconstruction fields.
"I hope that the already intense relations between Kyiv and Rome
may find further impetus in all sectors of mutual interest,
thanks to the contribution of a Ukrainian community in Italy
which is integrated and active.
"With feelings of sincere friendship, I renew fervent hopes for
peace, security and well-being for your person and for all the
Ukrainian people".
Mattarella also said Italy backed Kyiv's ambitions to join the
European Union.
"Ukraine's path towards a full integration in the European
family represents the reinforcement of a framework of
fundamental significance," he said.
"Italy will continue to contribute to this process, supporting
efforts towards the achievement of this objective".
The Independence Day of Ukraine is the main state holiday in
modern Ukraine, celebrated on 24 August in commemoration of the
Declaration of Independence of 1991.
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