Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 May 2024
59. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the $61 billion in aid for Ukraine recently approved by the United States Congress; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20583/24]
View answerIreland, alongside our EU and international partners, including the United States, has stood firmly in support of Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine represents an attack on the international rules-based order, which is the foundation of our collective peace and security. Ukrainians are fighting not just for their own sovereignty and territorial integrity, but also in defence of the values and freedoms integral to the European Union and central to the UN Charter.
The recent escalations in Russian attacks and the increased pressures that Ukrainian troops are facing amid shortages of military materiel, particularly air defence, are grounds for significant concern. In this context, it is imperative that we continue to maintain strong transatlantic support for Ukraine.
The recent agreement reached by the U.S. Congress on funding for Ukraine is a very positive step and will greatly assist Ukraine's continued efforts to defend its territory, sovereignty and people. This support, alongside the sustainable funding for Ukraine recently agreed by EU leaders via the Ukraine Facility and the Ukraine Assistance Fund, sends an important message both to Ukraine and Russia that we will not waver in our support.
The EU and the US must continue to work together, along with other international partners, to maintain pressure on Russia and to support Ukraine, via the provision of humanitarian, stabilisation and military assistance, the effective implementation of robust sanctions, and support for Ukraine's EU perspective. Ireland has consistently stressed the essential need for continued support to Ukraine in all engagements with the US Administration and with Congress, and will continue to do so, both through my own direct contacts, and through our Ambassador and Embassy in Washington D.C.
