Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has been captured in a phone call with Russian pranksters discussing the fatigue surrounding the war in Ukraine and the lack of international support for Italy in handling migration. The 13-minute audio of the call, which took place in September, was released online by Russian comedy duo Vovan and Lexus, known for duping high-profile western figures who have criticized Russia's invasion of Ukraine. During the call, Meloni expressed her belief that "fatigue with the war was coming to a head" from all sides involved. She stated that everyone is nearing the point of understanding that a way out is necessary.

Meloni's office issued a statement expressing regret that she had been deceived by an impostor pretending to be the head of the African Union Commission. The call occurred before meetings with African leaders at the United Nations General Assembly. Meloni also addressed the issue of migration and criticized international partners for not doing enough to assist Italy in handling the problem. She described the prevailing belief that Italy alone should solve the migration issue as "a very stupid way of thinking." This incident is not the first time that high-profile politicians have fallen victim to the humorous duo.

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and singer Elton John have also been fooled by Vovan and Lexus in the past. The leaked conversation coincides with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's plea to the West to continue supporting Ukraine. Zelenskyy highlighted that some parts of the world have grown accustomed to the ongoing war in Ukraine, and fatigue is spreading. Meloni's remarks echo Zelenskyy's concerns. Despite being deceived, Meloni's openness in sharing her genuine opinions was praised by Lexus. He stated that many European politicians resemble "programmed robots" who only express their true views within their own circles.