"We would like to pay special tribute to the people of Ireland for their huge response."
The Ukrainian Embassy in Dublin has said Ireland is "at the forefront of European countries" in terms of the practical support it has provided to Ukraine.
The statement from the embassy was issued on Friday night after Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky
appeared to criticise Ireland for its response to his country's invasion by Russia.
Speaking via video link on Thursday during the EU summit in Brussels, Zelensky thanked the European Union for its support of his country during the crisis, though criticised leaders for arguably taking too much time to apply sanctions.
He stated that if the sanctions on Russia had been applied as a preventative measure, it could have deterred Vladimir Putin from starting the war.
During his speech, President Zelensky listed all the countries in the EU, appearing to offer quick-fire thoughts on their overall support of Ukraine, during which Ireland was somewhat dismissed.
"Austria, together with Ukrainians – it is an opportunity for you, I'm sure of it," Zelensky said before adding;
"Ireland – well, almost."
Taoiseach Micheál Martin is reported as having defended Zelensky when speaking in Brussels on Friday, stating he did not believe Ireland was being singled out as falling short in supporting Ukraine.
Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Embassy in Dublin said on Friday evening that the people of Ukraine are "highly grateful and appreciate" the huge support they have received from Ireland during the crisis.
"We would like to pay special tribute to the people of Ireland for their huge response, generosity, hospitality and willingness to grant protection for the Ukrainians," it said.
"Both President Volodymyr Zelensky and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal during their recent communications with Taoiseach Micheál Martin were unequivocal and clear on the overwhelming and practical support that Ireland provides for Ukraine.
"Ireland is literally at the forefront of European countries in this sense."
"We look forward to hearing more messages from the President of Ukraine on 6 April when he addresses the Houses of the Oireachtas."
Meanwhile, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba echoed the embassy's comments about Ireland, stating on Twitter it was at "the forefront within the EU and beyond providing essential support for Ukraine in all possible ways."
President Zelensky is due to address Dáil Éireann and the Seanad
next month, after accepting an invitation from the Ceann Comhairle.
https://twitter.com/DmytroKuleba/status/1507439649874190344
Main image via Leah Farrell / RollingNews.ie
