Irish Prime Minister arrives on a working visit to Ukraine
Photo by Damian Paran/Pennsylvania
Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin arrived in Kyiv on a working and friendly visit
The Irish Times reports.
Martin said he would support Ukraine in the face of russia's "immoral and unprovoked war of terror."
On Wednesday, the Prime Minister will meet with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky. He plans to discuss how Ireland and the EU can support the country's current and future needs.
The Irish government also said that Martin would see firsthand the devastation caused by the bombing and targeted attacks on civilians during the invasion and occupation by russian forces.
A statement said the Prime Minister will "reiterate Ireland's full backing for continuing sanctions against Putin's regime, for Ukraine's path to full EU membership, as well as our commitment to work with EU colleagues to ensure the reconstruction of Ukraine."
Before his visit, Mr. Martin said: "The bombardment and attacks on civilians are nothing short of war crimes, and I will use my visit to express Ireland's support for moves to hold those behind these attacks fully accountable.
The spirit and resolve of the Ukrainian people has inspired us all, and Ireland will provide every support for Ukraine's path to full EU membership and continue to welcome and support civilians fleeing this war."
PM Martin was invited to Ukraine last month by President Zelensky, who also singled him out for thanks after the European Council approved Ukraine's bid for candidate status at a recent summit in Brussels.
The Irish government did not disclose the exact details of the visit for security reasons, but it is expected that Martin will arrive in Kyiv by ground transport from Poland.
Martin previously stated that his country supported Ukraine's early entry into the EU as the best way to ensure its post-war reconstruction and democratic growth.
Prime Minister Martin was a strong early supporter of Ukraine's bid for membership in the EU.
He will become the latest in a series of western leaders to visit the Ukrainian capital since russia's invasion of the country in late February.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney visited Kyiv in April, and President Zelensky has also addressed the Oireachtas, the Irish parliament, by video link, praising the Irish people's support for his country.
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