Ireland Announces €125 Million Ukraine Package

Ireland will provide Ukraine with a new €125 million support package, Taoiseach Micheál Martin announced during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv on July 23, according to Ukraine’s presidential office.

The leaders discussed Russia’s ongoing attacks, preparations for potential further offensives and the need to strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses. Zelenskyy said Ukraine’s immediate priorities include missiles for Patriot and other air-defense systems, as well as expanded joint defense production with European partners.

Zelenskyy and Martin also discussed sanctions against Russia. Zelenskyy said Martin had assured him that Ireland would work toward the European Union’s 22nd sanctions package, following the adoption of the bloc’s 21st package. They addressed supply chains supporting Russia’s defense industry, including the production of aluminum components used in military equipment.

The meeting also focused on Ukraine’s European Union accession process and the opening of four remaining negotiating clusters. Martin said Ireland’s support for Ukraine’s EU candidacy was a priority during its presidency of the Council of the European Union and praised Ukraine’s continued reform efforts despite the war.