Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I believe the Deputy and his party are wrong to call for the expulsion of the Russian ambassador. I understand that sentiment, frustration and anger and wanting to send that clear signal. Keeping diplomatic channels open, in the context of making it very clear to Russia what we think of the illegality of its actions, and being able to call in an ambassador to send direct messages to Moscow and the Kremlin, is both helpful and appropriate at this time. The Deputy's calls for a peace process that can end this conflict are also very understandable, because this war has to end at some point in time. Having diplomatic channels open to speak to both sides is a useful tool in those efforts to understand both perspectives and find a basis for peace. We need to be careful that the international community does not in any way try to pressure or frame a peace outcome here in a way that is inconsistent with Ukraine's ability to defend itself and free its own people from Russian occupation.

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