Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 May 2026
21. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for a report on her recent discussions with the EU foreign affairs ministers regarding Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37995/26]
View answerIreland and the EU remain steadfast in our support for Ukraine, where the humanitarian situation remains grave and the security threat severe. The threat posed by Russia is not only an existential issue for Ukraine, but a major challenge to the security of Europe.
Russia’s aggression against Ukraine is discussed every month at the Foreign Affairs Council, where I coordinate with my EU counterparts on support for Ukraine, including most recently on 11 May where we were joined by Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Sybiha.
We have made significant progress at EU level recently, including final agreement on the €90 billion Ukraine Support Loan. This loan is essential for Ukraine’s defence amid continued Russian targeting of civilians and critical infrastructure.
Russia can halt its brutal attacks any time, yet it refuses to do. Immediately after the US brokered ceasefire this May – breached by Russia – Russia launched over 659 drones and 44 missiles into Ukraine. These are not the actions of a country seeking peace.
In our discussions at EU level, we have been clear that we must maintain pressure on Russia to engage in meaningful negotiations. I welcome the 20th package of sanctions against Russia. Ireland will continue to support robust targeted sanctions during our EU Presidency.
This month, I attended a meeting of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, co-hosted by the EU, Ukraine and Canada, where I reaffirmed Ireland’s support.
In March, I travelled to Ukraine with my EU counterparts for a meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council in Kyiv. At Bucha, we stood in solidarity with the victims of the terrible events inflicted upon innocent civilians by Russian forces in March 2022.
As EU Presidency, Ireland will work with EU and international partners to support Ukraine and support efforts to secure a just, comprehensive and lasting peace. Ireland will continue to work to advance Ukraine’s EU accession.
