Ireland Backs Ukraine’s EU Bid

In a significant diplomatic engagement in Kyiv, First Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Sergiy Kyslytsya, and Deputy Head Ihor Zhovkva, convened with Ireland’s Minister of State for European Affairs and Defense, Thomas Byrne, on March 17, 2026. The meeting underscored Ireland’s ongoing support for Ukraine, both bilaterally and within the European Union framework.

During the discussions, the officials reviewed progress on bilateral cooperation, following up on commitments made during the Ukrainian President’s inaugural visit to Ireland in December of the previous year. A focal point of the meeting was the advancement of Ukraine’s EU accession process, aligning with the priorities set during Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union scheduled for the latter half of 2026.

The dialogues also touched upon crucial topics such as the ongoing negotiations for peace and the enhancement of sanctions against Russia. Both parties expressed optimism about the potential of holding subsequent meetings in a trilateral format to further these objectives. Ireland’s commitment plays a pivotal role in shaping a broader security architecture that not only benefits Ukraine but also fortifies the stability of Europe.