Historic Visit by Ukrainian President to Ireland
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Dublin late Monday, marking the first state visit by a Ukrainian leader to Ireland. He is scheduled for several engagements, including an address to the Irish parliament.
President Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska were welcomed at Dublin Airport by Taoiseach Micheal Martin, Ukrainian Ambassador Larysa Gerasko, and Irish Ambassador Jonathan Conlon.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha is also part of the delegation. The visit follows discussions in Paris with French President Emmanuel Macron regarding a US peace plan, which has faced criticism for favoring Russian demands.
The visit coincides with the recent resignation of Ukraine’s chief negotiator Andrii Yermak, following an anti-corruption investigation. President Zelensky’s agenda includes a meeting with Ireland’s new president, Catherine Connolly, and the launch of the Ireland-Ukraine Economic Forum with Deputy Premier Simon Harris.
President Zelensky previously visited Ireland in February for a refueling stop en route to Washington DC, where he met Taoiseach Micheal Martin at Shannon Airport.
The visit follows a significant meeting with US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance in April 2022, where Zelensky addressed the Irish parliament via video, acknowledging Ireland’s support against Russian aggression.
Taoiseach Micheal Martin expressed honor in welcoming President Zelensky, emphasizing the importance of the visit during a critical time for Ukraine. He praised Ukraine’s resilience and reiterated Ireland’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty.
The inauguration of the Ireland-Ukraine Economic Forum is expected to strengthen economic ties, and discussions on Ukraine’s EU membership aspirations will continue, particularly during Ireland’s upcoming EU Council presidency in 2026.
Since 2022, Ireland has welcomed over 120,000 Ukrainians, contributing significantly to Irish society.
President Zelensky’s visit to Ireland aligns with ongoing US efforts to mediate a ceasefire in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, following discussions with President Macron in Paris.
