Zelensky seeks pivotal talks with Biden during Rome visit
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, wishes to meet with the US President, Joe Biden, in Rome. Biden's visit to the Eternal City marks the end of his tenure.
The Italian newspaper "Il Messaggero" reported on Zelensky's intentions. According to their reports, Zelensky is keen to organise a meeting with the outgoing president, which would occur during Biden's farewell visit to Rome.
Biden is scheduled to arrive in the Italian capital on Friday, following the funeral ceremonies for former US President Jimmy Carter. The American leader's itinerary includes an audience with Pope Francis and meetings with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
According to "Il Messaggero", a trilateral meeting involving Biden, Zelensky, and Meloni is also a possibility.
The newspaper suggests that the President of Ukraine is eager for a conversation with the outgoing US President and also hopes for Italian mediation in his communications with President-elect Donald Trump.
In the first weekend of January, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited Trump at his estate in Florida.
It is also noted that Zelensky was in the Eternal City in October last year.
Has Meloni already agreed?
The office of the Italian Prime Minister does not confirm her return visit, but the newspaper cites sources according to which Meloni has already agreed to Zelensky's visit and preparations for talks are currently underway.
During his visit to Rome, Zelensky intends to ask Biden to persuade European allies to continue supporting Ukraine. The President of Ukraine also wishes to obtain a report from Prime Minister Meloni regarding her meeting with Trump.
These discussions are set to take place nine days before the inauguration of the new US President.
