The Daily Star Ireland
Taoiseach Simon Harris is currently in Brussels attending a summit with fellow EU leaders, where Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky will also participate. The summit will focus on key issues including the Middle East, transatlantic relations, and how to further strengthen both financial and military support for Ukraine.
This comes at a critical time as Ukraine prepares for what is expected to be a pivotal year, with the return of Donald Trump to the White House and the possibility of peace talks aimed at ending the ongoing war.
In the lead-up to the summit, President Zelensky met with leaders from France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Denmark, followed by talks with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. On the financial front, Ukraine is expected to maintain a stable position for the coming year, thanks to a €50 billion EU support package and loans secured by the G7.
A primary concern for Ukraine is strengthening its military standing. With Russia advancing in the eastern regions, there is little expectation that Russian President Vladimir Putin will be motivated to engage in negotiations. In the short term, Ukraine requires approximately 15 air defence systems to counter Russia’s relentless attacks on its energy infrastructure. Looking ahead, Ukraine is seeking long-term security guarantees in the event of peace talks next year, with NATO membership or bilateral agreements being key options.
Discussions are also underway regarding the potential for a European peacekeeping force in a post-war context. Key questions remain about the size of such a force and its role—whether it would serve as a peacekeeper monitoring a ceasefire line or as a deterrent to future Russian aggression.
During the summit, Taoiseach Harris is expected to reaffirm Ireland’s commitment to providing non-lethal aid to Ukraine and its support for Ukraine’s potential EU membership, which would offer an additional layer of security.
Although Harris resigned ahead of the first sitting of the 34th Dáil, he continues to serve as Taoiseach until a successor is appointed following government formation talks. The Cabinet will remain in office during this time.
