Laois TD Charlie Flanagan has pledged his unwavering support for the people of Ukraine on the one year anniversary of the war with Russia.
The Fine Gael Deputy was speaking at the Ukraine Anniversary event in Dublin this afternoon.
Deputy Flanagan said: “As Chair of the all-party Oireachtas committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence, I pledge unwavering support for the people of Ukraine and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and its internationally recognised borders.
“Ireland will accelerate the sharing of our experience and expertise in the European Union with KYIV to assist Ukraine in its quest for EU membership with the aim of having EU membership granted asap.
“We call for the protection of civilians, including humanitarian personnel, journalists, persons in vulnerable situations, women and children.”
Deputy Flanagan also called for Russia to be punished for their actions.
He said: “There must be full accountability for continued and flagrant breaches of international law, war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and crimes of aggression.
“There can be no impunity for these horrendous acts by Russia.
“Every war criminal in the Russian hierarchy both military and political must be tracked down, prosecuted and punished.
“The international crime of aggression must be dealt with under a specially convened Tribunal.
“We in Ireland are duty bound to speak out loudly against Russian aggression and use our voices not just on anniversaries, but every single day working with international bodies the EU and UN to hold Russia accountable and uphold the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“Russia under Vladimir Putin is nothing less than a terrorist state and Ireland must join international community in stating and repeating this daily and unequivocally.
“I agree with President Zelensky when he says ‘While Russia kills and terrorises, representatives of the terrorist state have no place at sporting or OIympic competitions.
“The mere presence of Russians at the Paris Olympic games will be a manifestation of lawlessness and violence’. A ban on all Russian athletes ahead of the Paris games is essential.
“I’m honoured to stand in the presence of Ambassador Gerasko the official representative of the govt of Ukraine in Ireland and commit to our ongoing and continuing support and solidarity for you and the people of Ukraine for as long as it takes.”
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