Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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Ireland has been steadfast in our support for the people and Government of Ukraine. We will continue to work closely with our EU partners to ensure Ukraine gets the support it needs to continue to defend itself against Russian aggression, and to address the humanitarian consequences.

The European Council in December had a comprehensive discussion on the EU’s response to Russia’s continuing invasion of Ukraine and confirmed the European Union’s unwavering commitment to provide strong political, financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine and its people.

Ireland’s financial support to Ukraine since February 2022 included over €90 million in stabilisation and humanitarian support. Humanitarian assistance has focused on those most vulnerable and hard to reach, such as women & children, displaced persons, and those closest to the conflict lines. It targets critical needs, including provision of food, safe drinking water, cash assistance and the construction of prefabricated homes.

Ireland has provided significant in-kind assistance through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) including support to the health and energy sectors which are vital in the face of repeated Russian attacks on this critical infrastructure. The European Commission continues to coordinate the delivery of assistance through the UCPM to Ukraine, from all 27 Member States and five other Participating States. Almost 100,000 tonnes of assistance has been delivered to Ukraine in the largest and most complex UCPM operation to date.

We have also welcomed over 100,000 Ukrainians under the Temporary Protection Directive.

Ireland remains committed to supporting Ukraine for as long as it takes. In 2024, we expect to provide over €20 million in humanitarian support alone, with additional funding to be allocated to other development needs, as the situation develops.