An Taoiseach Micheál Martin says Ireland stands with the people of Ukraine following yesterday’s invasion by Russia calling it “an outrageous breach of all the fundamental principals of international law.”
Visa requirements are now to be waived for all Ukrainians entering Ireland.
The EU is expected to impose the most severe package of sanctions ever considered.
When asked about the status of the Russian Ambassador to Ireland, the Taoiseach said Ambassador Yuri Filatov represents a government which has lied to the world.
Two Irish diplomats in the Embassy in Kyiv are said to be in a safe place with EU colleagues.
Mr Martin says he agrees with EU Council President Ursula Von der Leyen when she says the target is no longer just Ukraine given the expansionist position of President Putin.
