128. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the type of non-lethal military aid provided to Ukraine, including the additional aid recently announced; how this aid is being used; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15213/25]

Sentiment score: 0.01

The Tánaiste mentioned non-lethal aid that is being provided to Ukraine, including the additional aid that was recently announced. I ask how this aid is being used and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Sentiment score: 0.01

Gabhaim buíochas leis an Aire Stáit. I share his deep concern in relation to the situation on the ground in Ukraine and I welcome the additional allocation of €100 million that was announced last month. It is imperative this non-lethal military aid will be used to procure items that are identified in co-ordination with Ukraine as we need the aid that has been allocated to be delivered into the areas that have been identified as being most needed on the ground. We need to collaborate with the people on the ground in Ukraine. I would like to know how the €100 million is being split between the two key channels the Minister of State mentioned, namely, the de-mining and ICT procurement partnerships. What steps are being taken to ensure the procurement partners chosen have the capacity to supply non-lethal military aid quickly and the items that are being delivered are items that have been identified by Ukraine as areas of need?

Sentiment score: 0.23

That is very welcome news. I thank the Minister of State. It is very clear to see then that the allocation of the extra €100 million is having a significant impact and providing vital support for Ukraine as it continues to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity, support that, as the Minister of State himself says, is needed now more than ever as Ukraine continues to defend itself against the continuing attacks and to be in a position of strength for ongoing negotiations. It is vital that we in Ireland, together with our European partners, play our part in supporting Ukraine as it continues its defence against Russia. The Minister of State mentioned the €250 million, the initial allocation we had pledged, but it is being blocked by Hungary. What can be done, and what is being done, to ensure that money, that aid, gets to Ukraine? As the Minister of State says, the €100 million is very welcome, but the €250 million would be more than twice as welcome.

Sentiment score: 0.48