Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Dublin late on Monday night, accompanied by his wife, as part of a brief but highly significant first official visit to Ireland. The trip, described by the Irish Government as the first by a sitting Ukrainian head of state and first lady, comes at “a critical time” for Ukraine.
@radionova100fmTRAFFIC Roads around Phoenix Park have reopened, as Dublin South roads are being closed off around the city centre, increasing safety measures for Volodymyr Zelensky visits Dublin Stephen’s Green - Merrion Square area will be blocked until 5:30pm today
For Ireland, hosting Zelensky is an opportunity to reaffirm its support for Ukraine as it continues to defend its sovereignty following Russia’s full-scale invasion. The visit also acknowledges the contribution of the large Ukrainian community that has taken refuge in Ireland since 2022 — more than 120,000 people have settled here at various points, with around 80,000 still living in the state.
During his stay, Zelensky is scheduled to meet with several top-level Irish officials, including Prime Minister Micheál Martin and other senior ministers, plus a courtesy call to President Catherine Connolly.
A major highlight is the inauguration of the new Ireland-Ukraine Economic Forum, intended to explore enhanced trade, investment and business-to-business links between Ireland and Ukraine. The forum will involve Irish leadership, including the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, reflecting a commitment to deepening long-term economic cooperation.
Zelensky will also address a joint sitting of the Irish parliament — an in-person follow-up to his historic virtual address in April 2022. This gives him a platform not only to thank Ireland for its ongoing support but also to reinforce Ukraine’s European aspirations, including hopes for eventual EU membership.
As part of the visit, the Government is expected to announce additional non-lethal military support for Ukraine — reportedly around €100 million, plus €25 million for Ukraine’s energy fund — adding to already substantial assistance since the war began.
Irish leaders have signalled that Ireland intends to play a supportive role in Ukraine’s path towards EU membership, particularly as Ireland prepares to take up the EU Council presidency in 2026. The forum and bilateral talks during the visit will likely include plans to help fast-track Ukraine’s European integration.
Observers note that this visit comes against a backdrop of renewed international diplomatic efforts to negotiate peace — including new proposals led by the United States — as well as growing concerns that Ukraine may feel increasingly isolated by shifting Western priorities. For Zelensky, the trip to Dublin is as much about securing ongoing support and solidarity as it is about building long-term ties with Europe.
