Biden to host Italian premier in May amid Ukraine war

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - US President Joe Biden will host Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi on May 10, the White House announced on Wednesday.

Biden and Draghi "will discuss their ongoing coordination with Allies and partners on measures to support of the people of Ukraine and to impose economic costs on Russia for its unprovoked aggression," spokeswoman Jen Psaki said in a statement.

"They will discuss our close cooperation on promoting global economic prosperity, increasing Europe’s energy security, and combatting climate change," she said. "They will also exchange views on regional and global security issues, as well as preparations for the G7 and NATO summits in June."

The US has led a coalition of western and allied nations in imposing costs on Russia for its war in Ukraine, and aiding Kyiv both military and economically as it seeks to thwart the Kremlin's over two-month assault on the country.

At least 2,787 civilians have been killed and 3,152 others injured in Ukraine since the war started on Feb. 24, according to UN estimates. The true toll is feared to be much higher.

So far, 7.7 million people in Ukraine have been internally displaced, with more than 5.2 million fleeing to other countries, according to the UN refugee agency.