Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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139. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he expects the united European Union response to Russian aggression against Ukraine to be sustained in the months ahead; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32929/22]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The response by the European Union to Russia's invasion of Ukraine has been unprecedented in its unity, firmness and determination. It has encompassed political, financial, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support, as well as welcoming millions of Ukrainian refugees under the Temporary Protection Mechanism and the imposition of the most extensive package of sanctions, in response to Russia's aggression, that have ever been adopted. 

On 17 June the European Commission recommended that Ukraine be granted candidate status, on the understanding that certain steps are taken. Ireland strongly supports this recommendation.

The recommendation will provide a strong signal to the people and Government of Ukraine who have stood firm in defence of our shared European values in the face of the most appalling Russian war. It is a message that Europe stands with them now and in the future, and will support the rebuilding of Ukraine.

On sanctions, Ireland has been consistent in advocating for a maximalist approach since the start of the war. Following adoption of the sixth sanctions package on 3 June, it is likely that Member States will look at options for further sanctions package in the coming weeks and months. The sanctions adopted so far are the most extensive in the history of the EU and it is increasingly difficult to identify measures that impact Russia more than they impact EU Member States. However, EU Member States will continue to work on options, with the aim of incentivising Russia to find a political solution to the conflict, and of depriving Russia of the means and capabilities to wage this unjust war. 

The EU agreed a fourth package of support to Ukraine’s military under the European Peace Facility at the end of May. Ireland will contribute €44 million (towards non-lethal elements only) of the €2 billion provided under the four packages. The possibility of providing a further package of military support is likely to be discussed in the coming weeks.

The European Commission has disbursed €1.2 billion of emergency Macro-Financial Assistance to Ukraine. The 30 May European Council conclusions state that the European Union is ready to grant Ukraine new exceptional macro-financial assistance of up to €9 billion in 2022, and invites examination of Commission proposals for this funding. The European Commission has also allocated €243 million in humanitarian assistance (€230m for Ukraine and €13m for Moldova).

EU Member States have remained united in support of Ukraine throughout Russia's war of aggression and I expect this unity of purpose will continue in the coming months.