Irish Prime Minister Visits Zelensky in Kyiv

Ireland’s prime minister, Micheal Martin, appeared in Kyiv to visit President Volodymyr Zelensky for the first time on Wednesday, July 6.

“Having witnessed the devastation caused by the illegal invasion of Ukraine, I reiterated Ireland’s backing for continuing sanctions against Putin’s regime,” Martin wrote on Twitter. “We will continue to welcome and support civilians fleeing this war.”

Martin is the latest foreign leader to visit Kyiv in solidarity with Ukraine since the Russian invasion began. Ireland is currently a member of the United Nations Security Council.

“I am grateful that Ireland stands by our side in this crucial time for our country,” said Zelensky in a post on Telegram alongside the footage. The president said that the leaders discussed the “threat to food security, energy issues, and the preparation of the new, seventh sanctions package against Russia.” Credit: Volodomyr Zelensky via Storyful

Video transcript

VOLODYMYR ZELENSKY: Welcome.

MICHAEL MARTIN: Thank you for inviting me.

VOLODYMYR ZELENSKY: Thank you. Thank you for coming.

[INTERPOSING VOICES]

- Hello.

- Nice to meet you, President.

MICHAEL MARTIN: The European Union council, our ambassador.

- Great to see you again.

[INTERPOSING VOICES]

MICHAEL MARTIN: The director of European affairs.

- Thank you.

MICHAEL MARTIN: This is Ann, my chief of staff.

- Pleased to meet you.

[INTERPOSING VOICES]

MICHAEL MARTIN: Thank you for your position.

VOLODYMYR ZELENSKY: Yes. And we feel that sometimes when we're thankful for [INAUDIBLE] some countries--

[INTERPOSING VOICES]

10% of the [INAUDIBLE] and we given-- 10? And we-- gave us all that they could. And--

MICHAEL MARTIN: They can stay as long as they wish? Many mothers and children have been strong-- speak-- I was very clear also that from a European Union perspective, and long been--