Ukraine, Ireland prime ministers meet to discuss Russian war crimes, tougher sanctions

Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal discussed with the Prime Minister of Ireland, Micheál Martin,  pressing issues and challenges facing Ukraine and Europe. The meeting took place on April 20 in Shannon (Republic of Ireland).

Denys Shmyhal briefed the Irish Prime Minister on war crimes committed by Russian troops in Bucha, Hostomel, and other Ukrainian cities, according to the Ukrainian government press service.

"At least 400 people were killed on the streets, in their homes, or near them; some were buried in mass graves. The International Criminal Court should investigate these crimes, while all military, commanders, and politicians involved should be brought to justice," said the prime minister of Ukraine.

The head of the Ukrainian Government also informed his counterpart of the massive damage inflicted on the country’s infrastructure.

"We have begun to reboot life in the liberated territories. But Russia continues to destroy civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. Previously, we did not understand why they were bombing households and neighborhoods in Kyiv, Kharkiv, Mariupol, and other cities. Now we have clearly realized that Russia's goal is to create a migration crisis," PM said.

Denys Shmyhal dwelled on that Russia had earlier resorted to designing an energy crisis in Europe, while their next step could be sparking a global food crisis.

"Russia is bombing grain silos to provoke a food crisis – not only in Europe. We supply millions of tonnes of grains to African and European nations. All these steps are aimed not only against Ukraine. These are steps are targeting Europe and the whole world," the Ukrainian PM stressed.

As Denys Shmyhal noted, the Ukrainian army is motivated to defend its country and will not give up a single inch of its land. At the same time, it needs more modern weaponry.

The Prime Ministers of Ukraine and Ireland also discussed tightening sanctions against Russia. Denys Shmyhal stressed that the sixth package of sanctions must include restrictions on Russian gas and oil.

The parties also raised the issue of demining efforts. The prime minister of Ukraine put forward a proposal to share significant experience gained as part of a UN peacekeeping force.

Also, Denys Shmyhal thanked Ireland and the Irish people for their comprehensive support for Ukraine. He also thanked the nation for supporting Ukraine's EU candidate status.

"Ukrainians are fighting for freedom, for their land and their families. We have paid a high price for our free, European future. Our society is ready to become a full member of the European Union," the prime minister of Ukraine summed up.

For his part, Micheál Martin assured of Ireland's support for strongest sanctions against Russia and for Ukraine's EU membership.