Further financial sanctions are essential as we mark the 4th anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine - Tánaiste

The Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, Simon Harris TD has today said that further financial sanctions are essential as we mark the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale war of aggression against Ukraine.

The Tánaiste reaffirmed Ireland's unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and called for the swift adoption of the 20th package of restrictive measures against Russia.

Speaking today, The Tánaiste said:

"Today marks four years since Russia's illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine, with Russian missile and drone attacks continuing to target Ukraine's towns and cities. Despite the grave circumstances, the will of the Ukrainian people remains admirably resolute.

"As we mark the anniversary, I believe it is absolutely that we agree further financial sanctions against the Russian regime.

"There has been extensive work done on the €90 billion loan to Ukraine for 2026 and 2027, and on the 20th package of sanctions. Ireland supports this work and calls for their swift adoption. Ireland will continue work with our EU partners to reach agreement.

"Finally, one of the key pillars that will underpin the new IMF financing package for Ukraine is the provision of Capacity to Repay Assurances to the IMF from members who were willing to do so. As Tánaiste, I was proud to bring this to Government, and for Government, collectively, to endorse Ireland's support. It was the right thing to do, and we have done it for the right reason."

The Tánaiste added:

"The people of Ireland feel strong empathy with the people of Ukraine and we have built strong ties between our communities. Ireland has contributed extensive political, humanitarian, non-lethal military, and economic support to Ukraine since February 2022. Ireland has also welcomed thousands of people fleeing the conflict since the war began. At EU level, Ireland has advocated for providing support to Ukraine.

"Over the past four years, a series of EU loans have been provided to Ukraine. Work is continuing to agree the latest €90 billion enhanced cooperation loan to Ukraine for 2026 and 2027. Ireland fully supports this loan, and calls for its swift adoption to support Ukraine's urgent financing needs.

Secondly, several packages of economic and financial restrictive measures have been adopted to date at an EU level against Russia. Noting ongoing discussions at the EU, the Tánaiste called for the swift adoption of the 20th package of restrictive measures against Russia, to further weaken the Russia's ability to wage its illegal, unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine.

"Also, Ireland has provided assurances to underpin the new IMF financing package for Ukraine. The Tánaiste recently confirmed Ireland's intent to join European and global partners in providing a Capacity to Repay Assurance on behalf of Ukraine to the IMF."

ENDS