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Zelensky addresses Oireachtas - Key quotes

Updated / Wednesday, 6 Apr 2022 11:40
TDs, senators and foreign diplomats gathered at Leinster House for the address
TDs, senators and foreign diplomats gathered at Leinster House for the address

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a historic address to a joint sitting of the Oireachtas, where he thanked Ireland for supporting his country.

He said Ireland has not remained neutral over the disaster Russia has inflicted on his country.

Here are some key quotes:

Volodymyr Zelensky

"From the very first days, you are supporting Ukraine and this is a fact.

"You did not doubt starting helping us, you began doing this right away and although you are a neutral country, you have not remained neutral to the disaster and to the mishaps that Russia has brought to Ukraine."

"Let's bring our efforts together, and let's show that Ukraine and Ireland jointly can do much more than the biggest country in the world was trying to destroy."

"Just think about it - 10 million Ukrainians have been left without shelter as of today by Russia, who had to leave their native cities because of this war. This is something we cannot come to grips with."

Taoiseach Micheál Martin

"Russia will have to live with the shame of what they have done in Ukraine for generations. Those responsible will be held to account.

"We are with Ukraine and I am certain that, in the end, Ukraine will prevail."

"To those who have arrived here from Ukraine, I hope you find in Ireland safe harbour and friendship for as long as you need it.

"Most of you, I know, look forward to the day when you can return to a peaceful and free Ukraine, to the family and friends that you have left behind. That day will come.

"In the meantime, our home is your home.

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar

"For the aggressors: your actions will never be forgotten - they will never be forgiven.

"You have united the West and made our values shine brighter. Ireland is small but we stand with Ukraine."

Green Party leader Eamon Ryan quoted John F Kennedy.

"No nation large or small can be indifferent to the fate or others near or far.

"Modern economics, weapons and communications have made us realise more than ever that we are one human family and this one planet is our home."

Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald

"Ireland stands with you now in your dark days, and we will stand with you yet in the light of a victory."

Labour leader Ivana Bacik

"We stand with Ukraine, we stand with you as your country battles barbarism.

"We will stand with you as the cities of Ukraine are rebuilt ... we will be with you as you rebuild your country, a country so close to our hearts and so close to the future of Europe."

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