Moscow brutal, resistance legit says Mattarella to Zelensky

(ANSA) - ROME, AUG 24 - Russian aggression on Ukraine has been "brutal" and Kyiv's resistance to the invasion is legitimate, President Sergio Mattarella said in a message to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on its national day of independence.
    "The need for an immediate cessation of hostilities for the start of a negotiating process in view of a peaceful, just, fair and sustainable solution for Ukraine must be affirmed yet again," said the Italian head of state.
    "I wish to renew, at this dramatic moment, the most convinced expression of solidarity, closeness and support by the Italian Republic for Ukraine, which is facing the brutal and unjustified aggression by the Russian Federation, against which it is legitimately resisting".
    Matteralla went on: "Italy firmly supports the territorial integrity, independence and freedom of your country, and reaffirms its commitment to assist the UKrainian people also in the humanitarian and reconstruction fields.
    "I hope that the already intense relations between Kyiv and Rome may find further impetus in all sectors of mutual interest, thanks to the contribution of a Ukrainian community in Italy which is integrated and active.
    "With feelings of sincere friendship, I renew fervent hopes for peace, security and well-being for your person and for all the Ukrainian people".
    Mattarella also said Italy backed Kyiv's ambitions to join the European Union.
    "Ukraine's path towards a full integration in the European family represents the reinforcement of a framework of fundamental significance," he said.
    "Italy will continue to contribute to this process, supporting efforts towards the achievement of this objective".
    The Independence Day of Ukraine is the main state holiday in modern Ukraine, celebrated on 24 August in commemoration of the Declaration of Independence of 1991. (ANSA).