Taoiseach says European input essential for Ukraine peace talks

Senior US negotiators met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Dublin as the European Political Community (EPC) summit gathered 50 world leaders at the Convention Centre.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the gathering reaffirmed “unwavering support” for the people of Ukraine and stressed that any future peace talks must include European voices. “The US and Russia know that there can be no progress … without European input,” he told the summit.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pledged continued support for Ukraine, announcing preparation of the 22nd sanctions package against Russia and a proposal to fund Ukraine’s financial needs through 2027, both to be ready before the next European Council meeting.

Martin also paid tribute to Ukrainian bravery amid Russia’s intensified attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure, and highlighted the summit’s focus on rising energy prices. He called for greater renewable capacity, grid interconnections – such as the planned Ireland‑France link – and improved energy efficiency to lower costs for families and businesses across Europe.

Leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation against hybrid attacks targeting schools, media and aviation, warning that such threats aim to undermine democratic confidence.

Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine will never cede territory to Russia and stressed the importance of European involvement, noting Ukraine’s eventual EU membership.

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Selim Karadayı / Pexels.