As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky prepares for his visit to Italy, significant security and logistical measures are being put in place around Rome. Local authorities are expected to impose a temporary airspace restriction over the capital, a step described by the Republic newspaper as a precaution for the high-level arrival and related activities. The move aligns with standard protective procedures during visits by heads of state and aims to ensure smooth movement for official aircraft and dignitaries.
During the period of heightened security, police helicopters are anticipated to conduct air surveillance and assist ground security operations. In addition, enhanced checks and monitoring at major transportation hubs, including rail stations and airports, are planned to manage crowds and ensure orderly flows. The historical center of Rome is likely to see restricted access or blockades to facilitate the security perimeter around official events and meetings.
President Zelensky is expected to travel to Italy early Saturday morning and is anticipated to meet with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Officials have not ruled out the possibility of a courtesy meeting with Pope Francis as part of the broader visit, in line with customary engagements offered to visiting foreign leaders.
Earlier reporting from ANSA indicated that Italian President Sergio Mattarella would host Zelensky at the Quirinal Palace as part of ongoing diplomatic exchanges. While the exact time for the talks was not disclosed, the venue underscores the importance of the bilateral discussions and the broader European security context surrounding the war in Ukraine.
Separately, it is noted that Prime Minister Meloni had previously planned a formal visit to Kyiv, which took place on an official trip in February. This reciprocal interaction highlights the ongoing diplomatic channel between Rome and Kyiv as part of Italy’s engagement with Ukraine and broader European security matters. The series of engagements signals a concerted effort to support Ukraine while coordinating on political and humanitarian concerns.