Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 April 2025
224. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on the work of the US government in securing a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15220/25]
View answerI welcome the commitment of the United States to support the achievement of peace in Ukraine. The support of the US since the start of Russia's illegal, full-scale invasion and war of aggression has been instrumental to Ukraine’s defence. Our response has been characterised by strong transatlantic cooperation, including with regard to holding Russia accountable. I recently spoke with Secretary of State Rubio, and emphasised to him the vital importance for Ireland and our European partners of continuing to support Ukraine as it defends its sovereignty and territorial integrity. This is also a question of European and transatlantlic security.
US proposals for a partial ceasefire on energy infrastructure and in the Black Sea as well as plans for further negotiations represent a first and positive step forward.
Ukraine is engaging positively and constructively in these discussions despite the ongoing Russian assault. Russian strikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities demonstrate that Russia is intent on escalating, rather than de-escalating. These are not the actions of a country that is serious about peace.
Russia is also seeking to impose conditions on its agreement to an interim or partial ceasefire, including demanding action by the EU.
We must recall that Russia started this war as the aggressor. It cannot be seen to be rewarded for its actions.
We all want to see an end to this conflict and peace in Ukraine. However, how we arrive at peace matters. We want to achieve an outcome that protects Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and provides the necessary security assurances, so we do not see a return to violence and aggression by Russia in the future.
We have been very clear since the full-scale invasion that we believe it is for Ukraine, a fellow democracy and a candidate for EU membership, to determine the terms, conditions and timelines for any peace agreement.
We are committed to working with Ukraine, the US, and our EU and international partners, to build global support for a comprehensive and lasting peace, with justice and accountability at its heart.
