(MENAFN) Italy is not engaged in war with Russia and aims to bring Moscow to the negotiation table to achieve a "just and lasting peace" in Ukraine, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani stated Tuesday.

Addressing a UN Security Council session on Ukraine, Tajani emphasized that Rome’s main priority is upholding international law while standing firmly alongside Kyiv in protecting its sovereignty and freedom.

"I want to make this point very clear: We are not at war with Russia. Our goal is to bring Russia to the negotiation table for a just peace. We are fully convinced that the path to peace is still possible," he affirmed.

He further stressed, "It's time to start direct negotiations with Ukraine. Italy strongly supports this political process. We all need to support it. This is the key to end this conflict."

Tajani also condemned recent breaches of Polish, Romanian, and Estonian airspace as "unacceptable," cautioning against any escalation.

A suspected Russian drone strike on Sept. 10 targeted Polish territory, prompting NATO to deploy fighter jets. Romania and Estonia made similar accusations, which Russia has denied.

Additionally, Tajani reiterated his concerns over the safety of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant and voiced support for International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi’s efforts to secure it.

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