Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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378. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which he expects the European Union to work cohesively towards ending the war in Ukraine with particular reference to the need for the Russian armies to withdraw from their illegal occupation of any part of Ukraine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4756/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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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 for Ukraine. The EU has also imposed the most extensive package of sanctions in its history, in response to Russia's aggression, and in coordination with other like-minded partners. 

The EU has not recognised the Russian announcements of their annexation of territories in the regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia.  EU Heads of State and Government have expressed their firm rejection and condemnation of the illegal annexations, their resolve to continue to stand resolutely with Ukraine and its people, and to continue to provide strong economic, military, social and financial support to Ukraine for as long as necessary.

In response to the Russian announcement of the illegal referendums, EU Foreign Ministers agreed on a further sanctions package, comprising sectoral measures and new listings, as well as extending the scope of the Donetsk and Luhansk Sanctions Regime to include the other occupied territories.

Recent discussions at EU level have also focused on the provision of additional, more sophisticated military equipment to Ukraine. In January, it was agreed to increase funding under the European Peace Facility to €3.5 billion. In line with our approach to the initial Council Decision, Ireland will constructively abstain from the Assistance Measure concerning the supply of military equipment, and platforms, designed to deliver lethal force. We will instead contribute our full share to the non-lethal Assistance Measure (this will bring Ireland’s total contribution to Ukraine under the European Peace Facility to approximately €77 million.)

At their meeting on 23 January, EU Foreign Ministers also agreed to support the implementation of Ukraine’s ten-step initiative for a just peace.

The EU-Ukraine Summit is due to be held on 3 February and will be a further occasion for the EU to demonstrate its unwavering commitment and resolve to support Ukraine for as long as it takes.

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.