Ireland has announced plans to provide an additional €50 million in non-lethal military aid to Ukraine next month, bypassing the European Union’s European Peace Facility due to an ongoing blockade by Hungary.
Tánaiste Simon Harris is set to brief the Cabinet today on Ireland's continued support for Ukraine as the third anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion approaches. The decision to provide the funding independently follows difficulties in delivering Ireland's pledged €250 million through the EU mechanism, with Hungary's opposition stalling the Ukraine Assistance Fund.
Since the onset of the war, Ireland has contributed €130 million to assist Ukraine. Harris is expected to emphasize the importance of expressing strong solidarity with Ukraine, particularly as the anniversary of the invasion nears.
This latest development comes after controversial remarks from senior US officials during recent speeches in Europe. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the United States could no longer guarantee European security, while also dismissing the possibility of Ukraine joining NATO. The comments have raised concerns among European leaders, prompting French President Emmanuel Macron to convene an emergency meeting with EU counterparts.
In a related development, US President Donald Trump recently held an extended phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and American officials are scheduled to meet with Russian diplomats in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. European leaders worry that Ukraine may be sidelined from future negotiations regarding the conflict's resolution.
Tánaiste Harris is also preparing for a visit to South Africa later this week to participate in the G20 summit. This marks Ireland's first time attending the international economic forum as a guest nation. Harris is expected to highlight Ireland's commitment to global cooperation and underscore the country’s potential to contribute meaningfully to international diplomatic efforts.
Tánaiste Simon Harris is set to brief the Cabinet today on Ireland's continued support for Ukraine as the third anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion approaches. The decision to provide the funding independently follows difficulties in delivering Ireland's pledged €250 million through the EU mechanism, with Hungary's opposition stalling the Ukraine Assistance Fund.
Since the onset of the war, Ireland has contributed €130 million to assist Ukraine. Harris is expected to emphasize the importance of expressing strong solidarity with Ukraine, particularly as the anniversary of the invasion nears.
This latest development comes after controversial remarks from senior US officials during recent speeches in Europe. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the United States could no longer guarantee European security, while also dismissing the possibility of Ukraine joining NATO. The comments have raised concerns among European leaders, prompting French President Emmanuel Macron to convene an emergency meeting with EU counterparts.
In a related development, US President Donald Trump recently held an extended phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and American officials are scheduled to meet with Russian diplomats in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. European leaders worry that Ukraine may be sidelined from future negotiations regarding the conflict's resolution.
Tánaiste Harris is also preparing for a visit to South Africa later this week to participate in the G20 summit. This marks Ireland's first time attending the international economic forum as a guest nation. Harris is expected to highlight Ireland's commitment to global cooperation and underscore the country’s potential to contribute meaningfully to international diplomatic efforts.
