Ireland Backs Ukraine: Zelensky Addresses Irish Parliament
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a strong and symbolic address to the Irish Parliament in Dublin, thanking Ireland for its long-standing support and calling for unity in the face of Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. The speech highlighted shared values, historical parallels and the urgent need to maintain international pressure on Russia.
Ireland’s message: neutrality is not indifference
The Speaker of the Dáil, Verona Murphy, opened the session with a clear statement on Ireland’s position. She described the invasion as “an illegal attack on a sovereign nation… a violation of human dignity” and stressed that Irish neutrality has never meant moral silence.
According to Murphy, “Ireland is not, and never will be, morally neutral in the face of atrocity.” She also praised Ukrainian refugees who have integrated into communities across Ireland, enriching local life while suffering the consequences of war.
Zelensky: Ireland stood firm when it mattered most
President Zelensky thanked Ireland for offering shelter and protection to Ukrainians who fled the full-scale invasion.
“Thank you for providing home and protection to our people when they needed it most,” he said.
Zelensky noted that both nations share a long history of defending their identity: “Our peoples spent centuries fighting for the right to remain themselves.”
A real chance for peace — but only through unity
Zelensky argued that today Ukraine is “closer to peace than ever before”, but warned that this opportunity can be seized only if global unity remains intact.
He emphasized that one powerful state may start a war, but only a broad coalition of nations can end it and secure justice.
“To restore justice, we need a community of nations,” he said, urging Ireland to continue advocating for accountability, sanctions, and the return of abducted Ukrainian children.
Accountability and justice as the core of peace
Both Zelensky and Murphy repeated that peace cannot come without consequences for those responsible for war crimes.
Zelensky reaffirmed that “the aggressor must be held accountable… and Russian assets must serve the cause of peace.”
He called on Ireland to help keep global attention on the war and prevent political “amnesia” in Europe and beyond.
Ireland’s voice matters
The Ukrainian president closed his speech by reminding Irish lawmakers of their influence in the international arena:
“Please remember — your voice matters. Help us achieve real peace and never lose your faith in Ukraine.”——————————————————
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