Taoiseach: Russia is 'serious threat' to EU's collective security
Micheál Martin said any engagement with EU leaders on increased defence spending would be done in line with Ireland's policy of military neutrality. Picture: Sam Boal
The Taoiseach has described Russia as a "serious threat" to the collective security of the EU, as he arrived in Brussels for a meeting of the European Council.
Micheál Martin has backed working with EU countries to improve defence capabilities, saying that "we must be sure that we have the capabilities to counter the threats we face in today’s uncertain and dangerous world".
"More broadly, it is clear that Russia is a serious threat to our collective security in Europe," Mr Martin said.
He highlighted both cyber security and maritime defence as key priorities for the Irish Government, while reiterating plans to increase defence spending at home.
It comes after the European Commission published its White Paper on defence, which sets out how the EU can fund defence increases.
Mr Martin said any engagement with EU leaders on increased defence spending would be done in line with Ireland's policy of military neutrality.
A senior EU source indicated that there would not be an in-depth discussion at today’s European Council meeting on the defence white paper, as it was only formally published on Wednesday.
Leaders would instead “take note” of the work, adding that a debate on European defence is only starting, the source said.
The meeting will host Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who will address leaders via video link.
It comes just a day after Mr Zelenskyy spoke with US president Donald Trump about progress towards a ceasefire in Ukraine.
Mr Zelenskyy described the conversation as "positive, very substantive, and frank", while the US side said that "we have never been closer to peace".
EU leaders are expected to discuss the ongoing peace talks, with Mr Martin saying that he hopes it will lead to a "meaningful ceasefire" before a full and fair peace.
"I will continue to work with European partners to ensure that Ukraine can enter any negotiations in a position of strength," Mr Martin said.
The Taoiseach reiterated Ireland's support for Ukraine joining the EU, saying it would play an "important contribution towards Ukraine’s future security".
On Gaza, Mr Martin said that the recent move by Israel to recommence strikes against the Palestinian enclave was "deplorable".
"We need to demand an immediate return to the full implementation of the ceasefire-hostage release agreement," the Taoiseach said.
"All remaining hostages must be released and there needs to be a permanent end to hostilities.
"Unhindered humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza must be reinstated as a matter of absolute urgency."
Also due to be present at the European Council meeting this afternoon is UN secretary general Antonio Guterres.
