**Ukraine’s President Meets with US Envoy in Italy Ahead of Recovery Conference**
On July 9, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with US Special Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg in Rome. This marks their second official meeting, and comes just before the Ukraine Recovery Conference co-hosted by Ukraine and Italy on July 10-11.
**Diplomatic Efforts**
The meeting between Zelensky and Kellogg is a significant development in diplomatic efforts to support Ukraine’s reconstruction. As reported by The Financial Times, Western donors had previously anticipated a peace agreement in 2025, but are now preparing for continued hostilities. This means that the international community will likely continue to provide aid to help Ukraine recover from the devastating effects of the war.
**Ukraine’s Economic Struggles**
As Ukraine continues to absorb daily aerial bombardments and repel Russian ground offensives across the front line, the country’s economy is facing immense pressure. The Financial Times reported on July 8 that Kyiv faces a projected deficit of $8 billion to $19 billion for 2026, driven largely by declining US assistance and the absence of a breakthrough toward a ceasefire.
**International Support**
Despite these economic challenges, Ukraine has been receiving significant international support. The recovery conference opening in Italy will bring together leaders from around the world to mobilize political and private-sector support for Ukraine’s reconstruction. This is the fourth major international event focused on supporting Ukraine’s recovery, and it marks an important step towards helping Ukraine rebuild its infrastructure and economy.
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