Newly appointed Foreign Affairs Minister Helen McEntee must waste no time in condemning Russia’s continued illegal invasion of Ukraine, according to Social Democrats foreign affairs spokesperson Patricia Stephenson.
Senator Stephenson said:
“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 three years from Russia’s illegal invasion.
“Last night’s attacks show Russia has not lost its murderous intent in its campaign – the bombing took place in the west of the country, a region which has seen relative peace in recent months.
“This is a worrying development in terms of escalation and expansion – NATO has scrambled fighter jets as a result.
“The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine estimates that at least 4,000 civilians have been killed and over 37,000 people injured since the invasion started.
“This week’s Cabinet reshuffle cannot be allowed to disrupt the work of our departments – Minister McEntee must step up to the plate and show leadership in the face of this conflict.
“As a country deeply committed to international law and peace, it is vital that we call out instances when the principles underpinning global peace and security are blatantly violated.
“Ireland must advocate for members of the Ukrainian government to be included in ceasefire negotiations – this is the only path to a just and lasting peace.”
November 19th, 2025