Fifty heads of state are gathering in the Irish capital to discuss the war in Ukraine and other major issues, as Taoiseach Micheál Martin hosts the ninth meeting of the European Political Community (EPC).
The summit forms part of Ireland’s six-month presidency of the EU Council, and the largest security operation in the history of the Irish state has been mounted in Dublin for the event.
Zelensky holds talks in Dublin
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Dublin on Wednesday night and held talks with Mr Martin, thanking Ireland for its “unwavering support”.
Mr Zelensky said he expects to receive an update from US President Donald Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner after recent talks with Russia in Abu Dhabi.
Burnham expected to announce Russia sanctions
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is among leaders set to arrive on Thursday, flying in after attending the UN Cop31 climate conference in Turkey.
He is expected to announce further sanctions against Russia and discuss hybrid threats to European security. At the EPC summit, Mr Burnham is expected to co-chair a security and defence roundtable, attend a Ukraine meeting and hold a series of bilateral talks.
Mr Burnham has recently reopened the debate about Britain’s future relationship with the EU, ahead of a summit in Brussels next Friday.
His spokesman told reporters on Wednesday: “You can expect a focus on Ukraine, particularly following the peace talks in Abu Dhabi this week, and of course the EU summit.”
“The Prime Minister will use the meeting of more than 50 leaders to drive forward both agendas to boost security in Europe and here at home and make progress through an EU deal that cuts costs for families,” the spokesman added.
Forum set up after Russian invasion
The EPC was established in 2022 as an informal forum for leaders to hold political and strategic discussions on issues of shared concern, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
This is its ninth meeting and involves leaders from all EU countries, the wider European region, EU institutions and international organisations. The theme of the Dublin summit is “Europe – strong, secure and connected”, with discussions covering strengthening Europe’s economy in the face of geopolitical challenges, supporting Ukraine, addressing hybrid threats, efforts to undermine democracy and AI.
The gathering is being chaired by the president of the European Council, António Costa.
