Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 28 June 2022

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Defence

Situation in Ukraine: Engagement with Ukrainian Committee on Foreign Affairs and Inter-Parliamentary Co-operation

Photo of Cathal BerryCathal Berry (Kildare South, Independent)
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I thank Mr. Merezhko for his excellent presentation. We are very sorry for what is going on in his country at the moment and we totally recognise the reality of the situation. I take his views on board in relation to recognising Russia as a terrorist state and applying pressure and greater advocacy in relation to classifying it as sponsor of state terrorism as well. I appreciate those comments. It is great to get some specific requests from Ukraine.

I have two questions to ask. The first is in relation to weapons and ammunition. I note that Ireland is not providing any weapons and ammunition yet. Were weapons and ammunition to be provided from Ireland, is this something that Mr. Merezhko would welcome?

Second, in relation to Ukrainian grain in Odesa and in the ports, what are Mr. Merezhko's views on establishing a safe corridor through the Black Sea that could be secured by international community warships to ensure freighters could come in, pick up the grain and distribute it around the world.

The third question is to ask how he sees this situation playing out for the rest of the year, particularly in the next few months? Where does he see the conflict in October, for instance?