"Today marks the second anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

"For 730 days, Ukraine has endured unimaginable violence and suffering - the destruction of homes, livelihoods and critical infrastructure by the Russian Federation.

"Across the country, innocent Ukrainian men, women and children are paying the ultimate price for a war not of their choosing. Yet, they continue to demonstrate remarkable resolve and determination in the face of adversity.

"While the world calls for peace, respect for international borders and territorial integrity, Russia choses the path of escalation. Increased large-scale assaults on civilians in recent weeks demonstrate that Putin is not serious about reaching a peaceful resolution to this conflict.

"Ireland will not waver in support for Ukraine or in determination to stand up and hold Russia to account. We will continue our unified and determined response that Ireland and the European Union have mounted since the beginning of this war of aggression, encompassing political, financial, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support.

"Collectively, the EU has provided approximately €88 billion in financial, humanitarian, emergency, budgetary and military support.

"Earlier this month, the EU again demonstrated its firm commitment to continuing to support Ukraine by agreeing on a new €50 billion financial assistance package, the “Ukraine Facility”.

"In parallel with our support for Ukraine, Ireland and our EU partners are determined to hold Russia to account for its actions.

"The targeted sanctions adopted in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine are the most expansive and hard-hitting in EU history, targeting the military, financial, energy, technology, transport and media sectors of the Russian economy.

"Ireland’s financial support to Ukraine since February 2022 includes over €90 million in stabilisation and humanitarian support, focusing on those most vulnerable and hard to reach, such as women & children, displaced persons, and those closest to the conflict lines. It targets critical needs, including provision of food, safe drinking water, cash assistance and the construction of prefabricated homes.

"Ireland is working closely with our EU partners to provide support to Ukraine through the European Peace Facility. To date, we have committed €122 million, which is directed towards non-lethal military support, including the supply of items such as food, fuel, medical, and personal protective equipment.

"Ukraine is now one of the most mined countries in the world, with almost one third of its land now affected by landmines and other ordnance. To assist Ukraine’s demining efforts, Ireland has provided two mine-flails, along with training in how to operate this important equipment. We have also joined an international de-mining coalition, led by Lithuania, to work with other countries on these efforts.

"We recognise that in fighting to defend their country, Ukrainians are fighting to defend universal values that we in Ireland, and across Europe, hold dear: human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, rule of law, and human rights.

"To the over one hundred thousand Ukrainians who have sought refuge in Ireland, and to all Ukrainians wherever you may be, I want to assure you that Ireland’s support remains steadfast and we stand with you."