Today marks the fourth anniversary of Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine – another grim milestone in this devastating conflict, according to Social Democrats foreign affairs spokesperson Patricia Stephenson.
Senator Stephenson said:
“Four years into Russia’s brutal invasion, Ukrainians are facing one of their harshest winters in recent memory. Temperatures have fallen below minus 20 degrees Celsius while Russian attacks on energy infrastructure have left hundreds and thousands of people without heat and electricity.
“This week alone, Putin’s regime launched over 1,300 drones, 1,400 guided aerial bombs and 96 missiles into Ukrainian territory. These attacks routinely target residential buildings, power stations, energy transmission systems and gas reserves, leaving many civilians exposed to bitterly cold conditions.
“Russia’s assault has caused the loss of countless lives and the displacement of millions, families forced to abandon their homes in the face of grave danger. Ireland must do everything it can to continue to support Ukraine as it pursues peace.
“Foreign Affairs Minister McEntee must reaffirm Ireland’s commitment to and solidarity with the Ukrainian people, who have suffered horrendous conditions and human rights abuses for the past four years.
“Ireland must also work with its EU partners to ensure that critical funding for Ukraine, in the form of a €90 billion loan, is transferred as quickly as possible in the face of obstacles being put in place by Hungary.
“We must also stand against US pressure on Kyiv to accept Russian peace terms at any cost – something which could cause further destabilisation and conflict in Europe were Putin to view the outcome as a victory for his imperialist agenda.
“As a country deeply committed to international law and peace, it is vital that Ireland take a strong stand against Russian aggression and war crimes and continue to show solidarity to Ukraine – both at home and abroad. “
February 24th, 2026