Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South-Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

We are clear that Russia's invasion of Ukraine is a blatant breach of international law. It is full-scale aggression that has been defined by the potential war crimes committed by the Russian military against innocent people. Sinn Féin calls for a co-ordinated and concerted effort by the international community to secure an end to the hostilities and build peace. We want to see a peaceful settlement for the people of Ukraine, but we wish for peace based on a just and sustainable settlement that respects Ukraine's rights. Ireland should use its voice to the greatest extent to achieve and support an end to the conflict in the Ukraine.

Ireland remains a militarily neutral country. As I said during an earlier debate with the Tánaiste, we do not agree with any changes to the triple-lock neutrality protection. In our view, peacekeeping happens under a UN flag or a UN mandate. Neutrality and having an independent foreign policy allow Ireland to be a consistent advocate for international humanitarian law and a champion for the UN framework. This does not mean, however, that we are politically neutral and it is our very clear view that this is a war of aggression and that the Russian Federation is the aggressor.

Today, we mark three years since the commencement of the brutal war in Ukraine. We would all have said this time last year that we would have hoped not to have marked another year of war. Sadly and tragically, many more people have been killed in the intervening period. Unfortunately, the people of Ukraine have been let down in that regard. Nonetheless, I hope this time next year there will be peace. I know the people of Ukraine hope for peace, but it must be on a just and sustainable basis and the Ukrainian people must be at the table in any negotiations. That is the only way we will be able to see a peaceful settlement for the people of Ukraine and for humanity. I hope this happens sooner rather than later. Any new negotiations regarding the future of Ukraine can only take place with Ukraine at the table. Nothing can be decided about Ukraine without Ukraine.

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