European leaders met in Rome to discuss Ukraine's reconstruction, overshadowed by escalating Russian drone attacks and concerns over potential territorial concessions in a future peace deal. The conference, attended by Zelenskyy and other European leaders, focused on attracting private investment, but the urgent need to address the devastating impact of the drone strikes on Ukraine's economy and population took precedence. A report estimates reconstruction costs at over $500 billion, with a significant portion falling to Russia if territorial concessions are made. Despite previous conferences, meaningful progress remains elusive, prompting calls for a permanent body to drive private sector investment.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.