Irish PM Martin visits Kyiv to reaffirm EU solidarity

Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin arrived in Kyiv on Thursday, July 23, 2026, for a series of high-level meetings with Ukrainian leaders, aiming to reaffirm European Union and Irish solidarity as Russia’s war against Ukraine continues. The visit, occurring early in Ireland’s six-month rotating presidency of the Council of the EU, included talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky, newly appointed Prime Minister Serhii Koretskyi, and Verkhovna Rada Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk.

Martin stated that supporting Ukraine remains a central priority of Ireland’s EU presidency, which began on July 1 and runs through December. He condemned intensified Russian attacks on Kyiv and other parts of the country in recent weeks, which have caused significant civilian damage and loss of life. Ahead of his trip, Martin said the visit was intended to underscore unwavering solidarity with the Ukrainian government and people, praising the country’s resilience after more than four years of full-scale war.

The agenda for the meetings focused on the current situation on the ground, Ukraine’s needs, and its path toward EU accession. Martin said he would reiterate Ireland’s commitment to advancing Ukraine’s...