(MENAFN) Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy touched down in Dublin on Tuesday for his inaugural official state visit, receiving firm assurances of enduring support from Ireland.

During a joint media briefing, Irish Taoiseach Micheal Martin acknowledged the somber context of the trip, stating "we all wish that your visit here was under different, happier circumstances," and expressing hope "that we will soon be able to welcome you back when peace has come to Ukraine and its people."

Martin characterized the visit as arriving at a pivotal juncture for both Ukraine and the European continent as Kyiv continues its resistance against what he termed Russia's unlawful military aggression, calling the visit as coming "at a critical moment for Ukraine and for Europe" as Ukraine defends against "the brutal and illegal war" launched by Russia.

The Irish leader condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin, asserting the Kremlin chief is attempting to secure negotiating leverage through escalated military operations, saying Putin "seeks to gain an advantage at the negotiating table by intensifying Russia's relentless onslaught on the frontline and on Ukrainians, on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure."

Martin declared emphatically: "He must never be allowed to succeed."

He denounced the continuous nocturnal attacks using missiles and drones against Ukrainian territory as deeply disturbing, declaring them "shocking" and emphasizing: "The people of Ukraine deserve to be safe in their own homes. Their children deserve to sleep safely in their own beds. Ireland will continue to support the people of Ukraine for as long as it takes."

Martin also provided clear support for Ukraine's aspirations toward European Union accession, notwithstanding opposition from certain member nations.

He committed to advancing membership discussions, particularly during Ireland's upcoming EU presidency, stating: "We will continue to work, including when we hold the EU presidency next year, to advance negotiations on its membership as much as we can." He added that "The people of Ukraine are working extremely hard to achieve their EU ambitions, and they deserve our backing."

Martin drew parallels to Ireland's own transformation, noting: "EU membership transformed our country and underpins our prosperity, and we want the same for our Ukrainian friends."

He concluded with a resolute promise: "Know that for as long as Ukraine needs our help and support, Ireland will be there for you. Your struggle is our struggle. Your success will be our success. We are with you for as long as it takes."

Zelenskyy delivered remarks before the Irish parliament during his visit, expressing gratitude for Dublin's solidarity throughout the conflict with Russia.

The Ukrainian leader told lawmakers that his nation stands nearer to achieving peace than at any previous point, urging the global community to capitalize on current conditions to terminate hostilities through coordinated diplomatic measures, saying Ukraine is "closer to peace than ever before."

He emphasized that although a single country can initiate conflict, restoring justice requires collective international effort, stressing that while one nation can start a war, "to restore justice and defend what is right, we need a community of nations."

MENAFN03122025000045017169ID1110429071