Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has sounded a warning bell that Russia’s territorial ambitions extend beyond Ukraine, and that it is crucial for Europe to act in defence. Speaking at a congress of the European People’s Party (EPP), a conglomerate of political parties leaning center-right, held in Bucharest, Romania, he emphasized the severity of the ongoing offensive by Russia against the Ukrainians.
Varadkar further elaborated that Russia’s objectives under Putin won’t likely halt at Ukraine, emphasizing that the conflict extends beyond Ukraine’s borders and into international waters, with cyber and physical attacks being unleashed. Echoing his predecessors, he singled out Europe as worthy of protection and championed the expansion of Pesco, a program that focuses on enhancing defence cooperation between EU members.
Varadkar further expressed solidarity with Ukraine, stating that it is vital for the EPP to persistently back Ukraine against Russia’s aggression. He suggested stepping up military, financial, and political support, including humanitarian aid for Ukraine in the foreseeable future.
The Taoiseach spoke admiringly of the Ukrainian people, commending their courage in defending democracy, freedom, and the rule of law, in their battle against Russia. He urged for the acceleration of the EU accession talks as part of necessary aid to Ukraine.
On the topic of the conflict in Gaza, Varadkar was clear in his call for an immediate ceasefire. Referring to the attacks on October 7th, he expressed the European People’s Party’s shared anger with the Israeli populace over Hamas’ actions. He criticized the Israeli government’s violent response against Gaza’s residents, insisting that Palestinian civilians should not bear the brunt of Hamas’ misdeeds. He called for a ceasefire to enable the transportation of essential supplies into Gaza, the release of all captives, and urged enhanced engagement from the EU for permanent resolution of Israel-Palestinian, and broader Arab, conflicts.
In his passionate appeal, Varadkar affirmed that as Europeans, they carry the responsibility towards putting an end to these conflicts.
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