Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, held a lengthy telephone conversation today with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss ongoing mediation efforts for peace in Ukraine, the crisis in Gaza and the broader Middle East, and the situation in Venezuela.
The two Ministers first addressed the situation in Venezuela, which remains a matter of shared concern. Minister Tajani highlighted the condition of numerous Italian citizens unjustly detained in Venezuela, including Alberto Trentini, on whose case the Italian Government continues to work tirelessly, in coordination with US counterparts. Secretary of State Rubio assured Minister Tajani that the United States remains committed to supporting Italy in the Trentini case and more broadly with regard to all political detainees.
On Ukraine, Minister Tajani thanked his counterpart for the United States’ commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace. He confirmed that Italy is ready to contribute constructively to the process, keeping in mind the objective of safeguarding Ukraine’s sovereignty and ensuring Euro-Atlantic security.
Regarding Gaza, Minister Tajani reiterated Italy’s support for President Trump’s Peace Plan, expressing hope that the second phase can soon be launched. He emphasised Italy’s commitment at the Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) in Kiryat Gat to facilitate humanitarian flows and confirmed that Italian Carabinieri deployed at EUBAM Rafah are ready to assist with the reopening of the crossing once conditions allow and to support the training of Palestinian police authorities.
Minister Tajani also expressed concern over the increase in settler violence in the West Bank, as it could jeopardise the success of the Peace Plan.
Finally, Minister Tajani and Secretary Rubio briefly addressed the situations in Lebanon, Syria, and Libya, agreeing to maintain close coordination.
