Ireland is not neutral when it comes to Russia’s war in Ukraine, Tanaiste Michael Martin has said.
The Fianna Fail leader said this in a speech in front of hundreds earlier today at a demonstration held in front of the GPO. It was organised by Ukrainian Action in Ireland to mark the one year anniversary of the start of the war in Ukraine.
Mr Martin said: “Ireland is a militarily neutral country but we are not politically or morally neutral in the face of violations of international law and war crimes. Quite the opposite, our position is informed by the principles that drive our foreign policy – support for human rights, for humanitarian law and for a rules-based international order, the right of all countries to choose their own path.
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“We are not neutral when Russia disregards all of these basic principles. No, we stand with Ukraine.” The Tanaiste also spoke about Ireland’s commitment to Russia being held accountable for their war crimes, including the establishment of an international centre for the prosecution of the crime of aggression in the Hague.
He also said that Ireland extended her “friendship for as long as you need it” and that “our home is your home”. The Lord Mayor of Dublin Caroline Conroy and Ukrainian ambassador Larysa Gerasko also attended the demonstration. Ms Gerasko said called for Ireland to recognise Russia a terrorist state and to support the establishment of a special tribunal.
Many of the protesters had tears in their eyes as they chanted ‘Slava Ukraini’ (Glory to Ukraine) and ‘Thank you Ireland’, while the Eurovision hit Stefania was played in the background before the speeches. Demonstrations like this one were not only held in Dublin - there were over 20 events across Ireland, including in Cork, Galway, Sligo, and other major cities and towns.
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