Rome

Ukraine's First Lady Olena Zelenska reported that over 80% of Ukrainians are in chronic stress due to fatigue, tension, and despair. She noted that the country's economy is sustained by the efforts of people who work after nights spent in basements.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz publicly appealed to Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, urging him to support the 18th EU sanctions package against Russia. Slovakia is blocking the package due to unresolved issues regarding gas supplies after 2027.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the creation of the European Flagship Fund for the Reconstruction of Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome. He will speak at the plenary session alongside leaders from Italy, Germany, the European Commission, and Poland.

The meeting in Rome will focus on Ukraine's long-term recovery and the mobilization of investments, particularly private sector funds.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy will hold additional meetings with US representatives in Rome. Sanctions and the supply of air defense systems will be discussed.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with President of Italy Sergio Mattarella in Rome. Issues discussed included the return of Ukrainian children, European integration, sanctions against Russia, and the creation of a Special Tribunal.

Italian President Sergio Mattarella met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Rome, assuring support for Ukraine and expressing hope for a swift start to negotiations regarding EU accession. He emphasized that Ukraine's security is linked to Europe's security.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy began a meeting with President Donald Trump's special envoy, Keith Kellogg, in Italy. Kellogg arrived in Rome as part of the US delegation to the International Conference on Ukraine's Recovery.

Italy plans to allocate 300 million euros to support small and medium-sized enterprises involved in the reconstruction of Ukraine. This initiative will be presented at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome, where over 4,000 delegates are expected.

President Zelenskyy discussed war and peace talks with Pope Leo XIV. The Vatican confirmed its readiness to host representatives of Ukraine and Russia for possible negotiations.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Rome for a meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella. A meeting with Pope Leo XIV is also possible, and on July 10-11, a conference on Ukraine's recovery will take place.

President Zelenskyy has formed Ukraine's delegation to participate in the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC 2025) in Rome. The delegation will be headed by First Vice Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, and will include ministers from key agencies.

Mass strikes at Italian airports on July 10, including easyJet pilots and baggage handlers, could disrupt tourists' plans. Some flights are protected, but others may be canceled, causing delays and long queues.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will open a conference on Ukraine's reconstruction in Rome this week, together with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The event aims to mobilize investments, particularly from the private sector, for Ukraine.

Suspended deliveries of some American military aid to Ukraine may resume after a series of meetings in Italy and Ukraine. The US has already informed Kyiv of its intention to resume supplies of engineering equipment and some types of armored vehicles.

President Zelenskyy instructed Defense Minister Umerov to prepare for the next "Ramstein" meetings in various formats. Ukraine expects new steps for stability from the format in August-September.

Andriy Yermak held a meeting with diplomatic advisors to leaders of Northern Europe and the Baltic states. Issues of Ukraine's recovery, strengthening defense, and progress in Kyiv-Washington relations were discussed.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will meet with Italian President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinal Palace on July 9. This meeting will take place ahead of the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Prime Minister of Great Britain Keir Starmer coordinated diplomatic work. They discussed expectations from the meeting of the coalition of the willing in Rome and additional funding for drone production.

Pope Leo XIV arrived in Castel Gandolfo for a six-week vacation, the first papal visit in 12 years. The 69-year-old pontiff plans to rest and prepare for the upcoming challenges of his pontificate.

A powerful storm hit northern Italy after a heatwave, causing the death of a 63-year-old woman in Robecchetto con Induno due to a falling tree. Firefighters responded to about 50 weather-related emergencies.

Ukraine will never agree to any restrictions on its defense capabilities, including the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the defense-industrial complex, and partner support. This firm position was voiced by MFA spokesperson Heorhiy Tikhyi, emphasizing that Ukraine will not make concessions that weaken it.

Next week, the UK will host a meeting of the "coalition of the willing" to support Ukraine. President Zelenskyy will join remotely from Rome, where he is participating in a conference.

A powerful explosion of a liquefied petroleum gas tank occurred at a gas station in Rome, causing a column of fire and smoke. As a result of the incident, 21 people were injured, including eight police officers and medical workers.

Europe is experiencing an intense heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 40°C in many countries. Spain recorded a June high of 46°C, leading to fires and evacuations, while the UK and Germany are also expecting historical highs.

The Swiss government has approved a draft agreement on cooperation with Ukraine on reconstruction, which will create a legal framework for the involvement of the Swiss private sector. The agreement provides for non-refundable financial assistance for the purchase of goods and services from Swiss companies.

Al Pacino became the first film actor to be received by Pope Leo XIV. The audience took place in the Vatican as part of the presentation of the film Maserati: The Brothers.

Gennaro Gattuso has become the new coach of the Italian national team, replacing Luciano Spalletti. The presentation will take place on June 19 in Rome, details of the contract have not yet been disclosed.

On June 15, Ukraine celebrates Father's Day and World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. It also honors the Day of Medical Worker, the Day of Prophet Amos, and the Day of St. Jerome.