Conference commits over 10 bln euros to Ukraine rebuilding, Italy says

 

A major international conference held in Rome has led to financial commitments exceeding 10 billion euros to support Ukraine’s economic recovery efforts. The event was hosted by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and attended by key global figures including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. This is the fourth such international summit since the Russian invasion began in February 2022, with the primary aim of mobilizing economic and political support for Ukraine’s reconstruction.

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Meloni emphasized the significance of the unified global response. In her speech, she pointed to the historic recoveries of Italy and Germany after World War Two as a hopeful parallel for Ukraine’s future. She applauded the collaborative effort by governments, international organizations, financial institutions, local authorities, the private sector, and civil society. “We should be proud of the result we have achieved together,” she said, announcing the total financial commitments.

The European Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, played a prominent role in the pledges. The Commission signed agreements worth 2.3 billion euros aimed at facilitating up to 10 billion euros in long term investments. These funds are set to aid in rebuilding homes, reopening hospitals, reviving local businesses, and improving Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Von der Leyen declared, “We are literally taking a stake in Ukraine’s future,” indicating Europe’s deep-rooted interest in the country’s recovery and stability.

The Rome summit for Ukraine’s economic recovery took place under the shadow of intensified drone and missile strikes on Kyiv. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, addressing the attendees, condemned the recent attacks as “pure terrorism,” underscoring the urgency of both defensive and reconstruction support.

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Despite the ongoing conflict, the conference remained focused on Ukraine’s postwar rebuilding strategy. Italy’s leadership in hosting the event demonstrates a commitment to ensuring sustained international attention and aid. This economic recovery initiative reflects a broader global determination to assist Ukraine beyond military support, focusing on long term sustainability and independence.

The pledges made, particularly the 2.3 billion euro package from the European Commission, are expected to unlock nearly 10 billion euros in total investments. These funds are intended to help Ukraine recover critical infrastructure, provide essential services, and stimulate private sector growth. Officials stressed that this was not only a humanitarian effort but also a strategic investment in European and global stability.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz echoed this view, reminding participants that Germany's transformation after World War Two was possible through international solidarity and that Ukraine, too, could emerge stronger with consistent support. Meloni concluded with a message of hope, stating that the commitments made were not just financial but symbolic of a shared vision for Ukraine’s peaceful and prosperous future.

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