The Ukrainian President has praised Irish support for his country, thanking people here for not staying neutral in the face of the war.
Addressing a joint sitting of the Oireachtas, Volodomyr Zelensky said Russia doesn't deserve to be in the circle of civilised countries.
He asked the Irish Government to go beyond its support to date to push for EU membership for Ukraine and asked Ireland to go further with sanctions against Russia.
President Zelensky thanked Irish people for the support they have shown to the people of Ukraine:
"Since the very first days you’re supporting good
You’re supporting Ukraine, and this is a fact.
You didn’t doubt starting helping us, you began doing this right away.
Although you are a neutral country you have not remained neutral to the disaster and to the mishaps that Russia has brought to Ukraine."
President Zelensky addressing the Oireachtas. Says Russia is targeting their infrastructure and providing a food crisis. “Hunger is a weapon” he says pic.twitter.com/fZ29xYJ1pW
— Seán Defoe (@SeanDefoe) April 6, 2022
We Will Continue To Support
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said Ireland will continue to stand by Ukraine throughout the war:
"To those who’ve arrived here from Ukraine", he said.
"I hope you find in Ireland safe harbour and friendship for as long as you need it."
That was followed by applause from politicians and guests in attendance.
