Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to Ireland for its steadfast support amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia, following a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin in Dublin. Zelensky acknowledged Ireland’s assistance in defending Ukraine and addressing the humanitarian and economic repercussions of the Russian invasion.
During discussions, Zelensky emphasized the importance of European involvement in any potential peace agreement, asserting that lasting peace is unattainable without Europe’s participation. Prime Minister Martin reiterated Ireland’s commitment to Ukraine, condemning Russia’s persistent aggression against Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. He underscored that any peace deal must honor Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and its right to self-determination, while also voicing support for Ukraine’s future EU membership.
Zelensky indicated that there might be a window of opportunity for progress in peace negotiations before 2027. He also highlighted recent US-mediated talks in Abu Dhabi, which focused on potential prisoner exchanges involving up to 1,200 prisoners of war and discussed security guarantees for Ukraine.
The Ukrainian president also showed interest in collaborating with Ireland on drone technology, drawing on Ukraine’s expertise in unmanned aerial systems and maritime security. This potential cooperation could enhance both countries’ capabilities in these areas.
Following the meeting with Martin, Zelensky was scheduled to meet with US representatives Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff in Dublin. This meeting comes after Kushner and Witkoff’s discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, signaling ongoing diplomatic efforts surrounding the conflict in Ukraine.