Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 February 2023
170. Deputy Brian Leddin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he intends to use the European Peace Facility Fund to purchase non-lethal weaponry and other equipment to intercept lethal force weapons such as those used in the recent Russian attack on residential buildings in Dnipro, Ukraine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5223/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraRussia's targeted and indiscriminate attacks on residential neighbourhoods and civilian infrastructure are designed to terrorise the people of Ukraine. I condemn these attacks in the strongest terms.
While Ireland is militarily neutral, the Government has been clear that Ireland is not politically neutral in terms of our response to Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war against Ukraine. Together with other EU partners, we remain strongly committed to supporting Ukraine in defence of its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, in the face of ongoing Russian aggression.
At EU level, and in this context, we have joined other Member States in agreeing approximately €3.5 billion in military support under the European Peace Facility (EPF) to Ukraine.
In line with the Programme for Government, Ireland’s support for Ukraine under the EPF is directly towards non-lethal assistance. In this regard, our commitment now stands at approximately €77 million and helps to supply items such as medical equipment, food, personal protective equipment and fuel.
In addition, Ireland has previously provided approximately 10 tonnes or 5,000 units of ready-to-eat meals and 200 units of body armour from Defence Forces stocks to Ukraine.
