Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Griffin for his question and kind remarks. Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine remains a grave threat to all of Europe. Russia is demonstrating a clear desire to continue escalation and has projected momentum on the battlefield in recent weeks, taking advantage of Ukraine’s shortage of military material, particularly air defence, by launching fresh offensives and bombardments along the front line. At the same time, Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukrainian cities and civilian infrastructure. The situation remains fluid and unpredictable. It is more important than ever that we continue to work to maintain support at EU level as Ukraine enters what will likely be an even more challenging period ahead.

While the direct impact on Ireland may be limited compared to neighbouring countries, we have witnessed over the past two years that no country is immune to the indirect effects of this war. Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine has threatened global food security, disrupted trade routes, displaced millions, and undermined the multilateral order. Ireland is also vulnerable to hybrid attacks and cyberattacks from Russia, including the purposeful use of disinformation. Taken together, Russia's actions represent a fundamental threat to European security. Working with our EU and international partners is the only way that we can collectively defend against the direct and indirect impacts of Russia’s war.

As they defend their own territorial integrity and sovereignty, Ukrainians are also defending Europe's fundamental and universal freedoms. Ukraine's ten-point peace plan focuses on the core principles enshrined in the UN Charter, including the right to live in peace and security. I welcome that Switzerland will host the first summit on peace in Ukraine on 15 and 16 June. While Russia has no interest in entering serious negotiations based on core tenets of international law at present, this summit represents an important first step in bringing the international community together at a senior political level to agree on the principles of a future just and sustainable peace. In the run-up to the summit, Ireland will continue to work towards building a common understanding among global partners for a comprehensive, just, and durable peace.

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