The
Italian Foreign Ministry announced on Thursday that €500,000 will be
provided toward rebuilding the cathedral’s roof as part of a
collaborative agreement with UNESCO.
The announcement followed a formal signing ceremony in Kyiv, with
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani reaffirming Italy’s commitment
to Ukraine.
"On May 15, we will sign off on a deal with Kyiv and UNESCO here in Rome
for the reconstruction of Odesa and its cathedral,” Tajani said during a
parliamentary session.
He added that the help is part of a broader focus on supporting Ukraine,
including bolstering its energy systems amid the ongoing war.
Italy’s contribution fulfills a promise made by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni shortly after the attack.
Meloni, a staunch advocate for Ukraine during its conflict with Russia,
has maintained her government’s dedication to the country's recovery.
She hosted a bilateral summit last April to discuss reconstruction
strategies, emphasizing Italy’s long-term role in rebuilding Ukraine.
Italian Ambassador to Kyiv Pier Francesco Zazo highlighted his country’s
expertise in restoring cultural and religious landmarks, saying: "Italy
is very committed, through its institutions and industrial capacity, to
the reconstruction of Ukraine."
Tajani added: "As the G7 presidency, we continue to work for a just peace."
The damage caused to the Spaso-Preobrazhenskyi Cathedral, also known as
the Transfiguration Cathedral,drew international condemnation and
renewed calls for preserving Ukraine’s historical landmarks.