Ireland will support Ukraine for ‘as long as it takes’, Taoiseach tells President Zelensky
Speaking to Irish and Ukrainian reporters outside Government Buildings this afternoon, Mr Martin said it has been a great honour to welcome Mr Zelensky on his first official state visit
“Céad mile Fáilte,” he told Mr Zelensky.
“We all wish that your visit here was under different, happier circumstances,” he said, adding that he hopes another visit will come during a “richly” deserved peace.
He said the “Brutal and illegal war that Russia has waged on Ukraine has brought devastation and destruction.”
Putin has shown an “indifference to the value of human rights” and international norms.
He said the people of Ukraine have shown great courage and it is “shocking” that they are subject to nightly missiles and drones, adding that they have the right to be safe
Mr Martin said Ireland will support Ukraine “as long as it takes”, condemning Russia for “cynically targeting energy infrastructure in Ukraine”.
He reiterated the supports Ireland has in place for Ukraine, and announced further funding as plans for cyber-resilience, education and culture have been signed between Ireland and Ukraine today.
The Ireland-Ukraine Economic Forum will also meet today, with Mr Martin also saying that Ukraine “belongs” in the EU and Ireland will further these ambitions during its EU presidency.
He said Ukrainian people have made an “immense contribution” to Irish society and have been welcomed into the homes and hearts of Irish people.
“Ukrainians at home and abroad have shown themselves to be immensely resilient, innovative and creative.”
Mr Martin drew parallels between the Irish experience with migration, conflict and finding peace, adding that Ireland will support Ukraine until there is a just and lasting peace.
“Your struggle is our struggle, your success is our success,” he said.
“Thank you, and slava Ukraini.”
Maeve McTaggart
