Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 March 2024
48. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs for an update on the current situation in relation to Russia's invasion of Ukraine; if any further measures against Russia are anticipated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11141/24]
View answerAs we enter the third year of Russia’s full-scale invasion, it is clear that Ukrainian forces remain under significant pressure. On 18 February, following four months of intense fighting, the Ukrainian military was forced to retreat from the city of Adiivka, primarily due to a severe shortage in military equipment. Russia has launched new offensives across the Ukrainian frontline.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister, Dmytro Kuleba met with EU Foreign Ministers at the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels last month and made clear that Ukraine requires significant additional support from partners if it is to be able to continue to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity against the Russian invasion.
The EU has adopted substantive targeted sanctions adopted in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Over 2,000 individuals and entities are now subject to EU restrictive measures. On 23 February 2024, Ireland welcomed the adoption of the thirteenth package of EU sanctions against Russia, coinciding with the two-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This package includes the listing of almost 200 new individuals and entities, providing support to the Russian armed forces. The package also includes the listing of 27 additional third country entities, which will now be subject to tighter export controls for dual use goods and technology.
The sectoral measures introduced to date have resulted in a significant decrease in access by Russia of dual use and advanced technology goods from Europe. While direct exports from Europe have declined, data shows there are still significant challenges with dual use goods reaching Russia via third countries. Ireland fully supports the work of the David O'Sullivan, the EU's Special Envoy for the Implementation of EU Sanctions in tackling circumvention.
Ireland supports the continued use of EU sanctions to maintain pressure on Russia and end Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. These measures are carefully targeted and aim to impede Russia's ability to wage this war of aggression.
