EU chief urges Ireland to probe alumina exports to Russia

Senior European Union foreign policy official Kaja Kallas concluded a visit to Dublin on Tuesday by publicly warning that Ireland's military neutrality does not provide immunity from the threats facing Europe. The remarks came alongside discussions on how Irish alumina exports may be supporting Russia's war effort, a topic of growing international scrutiny as Ireland prepares to take on the six-month rotating presidency of the Council of the EU next month.

Speaking at a press conference alongside Irish Foreign Affairs Minister Helen McEntee, Kallas emphasized that while Europe must remain principled, principles alone are insufficient. "Europe must also have the hard power to defend them," she stated, calling for investments in security and defense capabilities. She directly addressed Ireland's traditional policy, stating, "Ireland’s proud tradition of military neutrality is not in question, but neutrality does not provide immunity from the threats Europe faces today. No country in Europe is off Russia’s target list."

The visit placed a spotlight on the Aughinish Alumina plant in County Limerick, which has been the subject of media investigations alleging its exports contribute...