Did Zelensky Engage with US Senators at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome?

Rome, July 11 (NationPress) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky convened a discussion with US Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal during the Ukraine Recovery Conference held in Italy, specifically in Rome.

“I had a productive meeting with US Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal. I appreciate their involvement in the Ukraine Recovery Conference and the Coalition of the Willing. It is significant that the United States participated in this initiative for the first time,” Zelensky shared in a post on X.

“Our immediate focus is enhancing air defense capabilities. Russia is planning to execute attacks involving up to a thousand drones simultaneously. Therefore, it is essential to strengthen our defenses, particularly through investments in interceptor drones. We also covered the ongoing arms supply from the United States and collaborative weapon production. We are open to various arrangements, including acquiring a substantial defense package from the US in collaboration with Europe, to safeguard lives,” the post continued.

The Ukrainian President highlighted their discussions on the legislation proposed by Senators Graham and Blumenthal aimed at imposing additional sanctions against Russia and its allies supporting the war.

“This is undoubtedly the type of leverage that can expedite peace and ensure that diplomacy is meaningful. I appreciate the meeting and the collaborative efforts towards peace and security,” Zelensky remarked.

The fourth Ukraine Recovery Conference, taking place from July 10-11 in Rome, is part of an annual series of high-level political engagements focused on the swift recovery and long-term reconstruction of Ukraine following Russia's full-scale aggression.

Moreover, a coalition of leaders and international organizations met in Rome on Thursday, attended by President Zelensky, which gathered representatives from 32 nations.

The event saw the participation of US Senators Graham and Blumenthal, along with Keith Kellogg, the US President's Special Representative for Ukraine.

In a statement issued by the Ukrainian President’s office, Zelensky expressed gratitude to all participants, both in-person and online, extending special thanks to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for organizing the meeting. He acknowledged that it was the first occasion that US representatives attended this meeting format.

“Thank you to President Trump. His signals are incredibly impactful, and we rely on them. I am confident that we will foster a coalition of those willing to unite, which is crucial,” stated Zelensky during the discussion.