Premier Mario Draghi on Wednesday
told Russian President Vladimir Putin over the phone that a
ceasefire in Ukraine should be set as soon as possible, the
premier's office said.
It said Draghi had underscored the importance of establishing a
ceasefire as soon as possible in order to protect the civilian
population and support negotiating efforts.
The Italian premier also reaffirmed the Italian government's
willingness to contribute to the peace process, in the presence
of clear signs of de-escalation on Russia's part, the office
said.
The two leaders agreed on the need to keep in touch on the
situation, it said.
The Kremlin said Putin reported on developments in Tuesday's
negotiations in Istanbul between Moscow and Kyiv delegations and
on Moscow's request to get gas supply payments in roubles.
Before the one-hour phone conversation Foreign Minister Luigi Di
Maio said Rome had recognised "the diplomatic steps taken" after
Moscow promised to de-escalate military activity around Kyiv
following its invasion of Ukraine.
But he added that "we will assess the Russian announcements on
the basis of the deeds", warning against "delusions".
Ukraine said Wednesday that Russian vows to pull troops back
from Kyiv and Chernihiv had been false.
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