Zelensky Targets Russian-Owned Firms in Europe
Volodymyr Zelensky criticised Russian-owned companies operating in Europe during his speech at Dublin Castle on Wednesday, marking the start of Ireland’s EU presidency. The Ukrainian president called for fresh European sanctions to target Russian shadow fleets and entities that enable Moscow’s war effort.
“Unfortunately, there are companies in Europe that are owned or effectively controlled by Russia and its sanctioned oligarchs,” Zelensky said. “They keep supplying the aggressor with essential materials, even now.”
Plea for Accelerated EU Accession
Zelensky directly addressed European Council President Antonio Costa, urging faster progress on Ukraine’s EU accession. “We can open five more clusters, Antonio. What do you think?” he quipped. Costa replied “maybe” from the audience. Negotiations are structured in clusters and chapters, and Zelensky emphasised the need for momentum.
Drone Deal and Sanctions Push
Zelensky expressed hope that during Ireland’s presidency, “we can make real progress on the drone deal that Ukraine has proposed to the European Union.” He also outlined steps to “make it harder for Russia to continue such war,” including new sanctions against Russian shadow fleets and “the tools Putin still relies on to keep this war going.”
Ireland’s Stance on Sanctions and Alumina Exports
Taoiseach Micheál Martin rejected claims that Ireland’s support for Ukraine had been damaged by alumina exports from the Limerick-based Aughinish Alumina refinery. “I don’t accept that our support has been damaged in that respect,” Martin told RTÉ’s Morning Ireland. “Europe makes two proposals, the European Commission, in respect of sanctions. We’ve been strong supporters of all sanction packages, up to 20 sanctions packages. We do not want to, in any shape or form, be supporting the Russian war machine.”
Solidarity and Security Measures
Tánaiste Simon Harris told Zelensky: “Your courage, your resilience, and that of all Ukrainian people will be a guiding inspiration to us here for the next six months.” Martin said Ireland “will stand unswervingly by the people of Ukraine, inspired by their courage and determined to ensure that they get the peace and justice they deserve.”
Zelensky’s visit marked seven months since his state visit to Ireland, when he addressed a joint sitting of the Oireachtas. Following that trip, gardaí investigated drone sightings over the Irish Sea. Defence Minister Helen McEntee confirmed counter-drone technology would be deployed during Ireland’s EU presidency.
