Minister Byrne meets First Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine, Sergiy Kyslytsya

This afternoon, Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne TD, met with the First Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine, Sergiy Kyslytsya.  

Speaking directly after the meeting, Minister Byrne said: “I was pleased to welcome First Deputy Foreign Minister, Sergiy Kyslytsya to Iveagh House. 

“We discussed the situation in Ukraine and I reaffirmed Ireland’s steadfast support for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people, whose endurance and strength are profound in the face of continuing Russia’s war of aggression. Russia is intensifying its brutal attacks on Ukraine’s towns and cities, on its critical infrastructure including its energy infrastructure. These are not the actions of a country seeking peace.  

“I emphasised Ireland and the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s needs and that Ireland will continue to support Ukraine’s efforts towards EU membership. On 4 November, the European Commission released their 2025 Enlargement Report, which outlined Ukraine’s notable progress towards this goal over the past twelve months. Ireland will continue to support Ukraine on its EU accession path, including during our EU Presidency next year” 

Notes to editors: 

Mr Kyslytsya was appointed as First Deputy Foreign Minister in February 2025, having previously served as Ukraine’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations from 2020 to 2025.

In addition to engagements concerning the situation in Ukraine, Mr Kyslytsya’s visit had a focus on developing economic relations with Ireland.

ENDS

Press Office

6 November 2025