Irish News - Taoiseach Micheál Martin met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy on a stopover in Shannon Airport

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has assured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that Ireland remains committed to financially supporting Ukraine, despite obstacles within the European Union.

The two leaders met at Shannon Airport, County Clare, on Thursday, where Zelensky made a brief stop on his way to Washington for a meeting with US President Donald Trump to discuss Ukraine’s mineral resources deal.

Ireland Seeks Alternative Ways to Provide Financial Aid

Martin explained that Ireland’s financial commitments to Ukraine have been delayed due to Hungary’s veto on the European Peace Facility fund, which was set up by the EU to provide military assistance.

"Our commitments... have been frustrated by Hungary's decision to veto the deployment of the European peace facility fund," he said.

He added that Ireland is exploring "alternative approaches" to provide aid and increase financial humanitarian support.

Push for Accelerated EU Membership for Ukraine

During the meeting, Martin and Zelensky discussed efforts toward a sustainable and durable peace settlement.

"We made it clear that we would push very strongly for an accelerated timeline in terms of Ukrainian membership of the European Union," Martin stated.

Zelensky expressed gratitude for Ireland’s continued support, particularly in welcoming Ukrainian refugees. At the end of 2024, nearly 80,000 Ukrainian refugees were still living in Ireland, according to the Central Statistics Office.

Ireland to Expand Humanitarian and Medical Support

Martin outlined Ireland’s potential role in humanitarian aid, including:

Participation in initiatives to help feed children in Ukraine
Exploring financial support for robotic drones to assist in retrieving injured soldiers

Zelensky Thanks Irish People for Their Support

Speaking to RTÉ, Zelensky said he was “delighted to be in Ireland” and thanked the Irish people for their continued support of Ukrainians displaced by war.

Earlier this week, Ireland pledged to increase financial humanitarian aid to Ukraine, with Martin stating:

"Ireland will contribute more financially on all fronts and in all areas."

As Ireland continues to navigate EU funding challenges, the Government is seeking new ways to provide essential aid and support for Ukraine.