Ukraine Outlines Diplomatic and Defense Efforts

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a series of diplomatic and security discussions on July 20, including talks with the Holy See, the United Kingdom and representatives of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).

Zelenskyy met with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Holy See’s secretary for relations with states and international organizations, to discuss diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. He also held his first phone conversation with the United Kingdom’s new prime minister, emphasizing the strength of bilateral ties and plans to expand cooperation.

At the Office of the President, First Deputy Head Sergiy Kyslytsya hosted OSCE permanent representatives from more than 20 countries, along with officials from the organization’s secretariat and autonomous institutions. The meeting focused on possible paths to peace and continued international support for Ukraine.

Zelenskyy also chaired a special staff meeting following several days of discussions with corps commanders. The session brought together weapons and military equipment manufacturers, military commanders, defense and finance officials, and representatives of Ukraine’s special services to discuss battlefield needs and defense coordination. Separately, First Lady Olena Zelenska presented a newly built home to a large foster family in Kyiv region through her foundation’s Room for Childhood initiative.