Ireland government is preparing to approve an additional €125m in support for Ukraine during a Cabinet meeting scheduled for Tuesday morning in Dublin. The decision coincides with the arrival of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is in Ireland for an official one day visit. President Zelensky and the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, were welcomed at Aras an Uachtarain by Irish President Catherine Connolly, where they signed the visitors book before continuing with their official engagements. During his time in Dublin, President Zelensky received a detailed update on the ongoing peace discussions from members of the Ukrainian delegation based in the city. This briefing followed a series of meetings in Florida between Ukrainian and United States negotiators who have been working to revise a peace proposal that many in Kyiv believe currently favors Russia. The Florida meeting included Rustem Umerov, head of Ukraines National Security and Defense Council, along with Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha. Zelensky later shared a photograph from the discussions on social media, noting that he had informed the team about his conversations with European leaders and with United States envoy Steve Witkoff in Paris. He also warned that Russia had begun launching new disinformation efforts ahead of its expected talks with American representatives.
Zelensky’s Dublin Visit Prompts Ireland to Approve €125m Ukraine Aid
Zelensky arrived in Dublin to a warm reception on the runway where Taoiseach Micheal Martin and Minister of State Thomas Byrne greeted him. Martin described the visit as an honor and a significant moment for both nations. Irish ministers are expected to confirm a package of financial assistance that includes €100m in non lethal military support and an additional €25m to help Ukraine address urgent energy needs. Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister Helen McEntee will present the proposals, which also include Irelands plan to join an International Claims Commission for Ukraine. This commission is intended to assess claims of damage or injury caused by internationally wrongful actions committed by Russia. Officials say the move reflects Irelands continued commitment to supporting Ukraine during the conflict.
This visit marks the first time a Ukrainian president and first lady have made an official trip to Ireland. President Zelensky is expected to address members of both Irish houses of parliament, the Dail and the Seanad, and will also participate in the launch of the Ireland Ukraine Economic Forum alongside Tanaiste Simon Harris and Minister McEntee. Irish leaders have emphasized that the occasion highlights the warm and close relationship between the two countries. Since the beginning of the war in February 2022, more than 120000 Ukrainians have sought refuge in Ireland, with an estimated 80000 still living in the country. Many continue to pray for an end to the conflict. Ukrainian refugees living in Dublin say they remain hopeful that renewed peace talks will finally bring relief to their families. Others express deep gratitude for the support and safety they have found in Ireland, while longing for the day their homeland can return to normal life. Local authorities have warned of traffic restrictions around Dublin due to the visit, including temporary road closures and delays near government buildings, Phoenix Park and the city center. Travelers heading to Dublin Airport have been advised to allow extra time.
source:BBC
