The US Vice President JD Vance intends to address the Ukraine-Russia conflict during the Munich Security Conference, focusing on strategies for achieving a negotiated settlement, as he informed reporters upon his arrival at the council.
He emphasized the United States’ commitment to ensuring that NATO is prepared for future challenges.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris are both present at the conference, which will continue until Sunday.
This conference is acknowledged as the premier forum for international security policy and will see participation from over 450 senior decision-makers, including numerous heads of state and policy specialists.
The ongoing war in Ukraine will be a pivotal discussion point this year, alongside the circumstances in the Middle East.
Tomorrow, the Taoiseach will engage in an event hosted by Mr. Zelensky focusing on global food security.
Prior to the event, the Taoiseach stated: “Ireland is, and will continue to be, militarily neutral, and this is widely recognized and respected. However, this stance does not exclude us from engaging in conversations about addressing the security risks we all face and how we can protect ourselves, especially from emerging cyber and hybrid threats.”
This day’s agenda will concentrate on global security challenges, such as the current state of democracy globally and climate security.
Other topics for discussion today include fortifying Europe’s defense industry, promoting clean energy technologies, and evaluating the new US administration’s Middle East policies.
A significant police presence is noticeable in Munich for the conference.
This afternoon, talks will also be led by Ms. von der Leyen and Mr. Vance, focusing on the roles of the EU and the US in global affairs, respectively.
Debates scheduled for tomorrow will delve into the state of the international order and ongoing regional wars and crises.
“I will be reaffirming Ireland’s long-standing support for a robust rules-based international order, strong multinational institutions, and our clear commitment to international law and fundamental human rights,” Mr. Martin remarked.
The Taoiseach expressed his intention to engage with other leaders on global security matters, particularly concerning Russia’s ongoing military aggression towards Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East.
In light of this week’s actions by the new Trump administration advocating for peace talks with Russia to resolve the conflict, the Taoiseach stated that “there can be no agreement on Ukraine without Ukraine’s involvement.”
Mr. Harris, also speaking prior to the conference, reiterated Ireland’s ongoing support for Ukraine as the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion approaches.
He affirmed that Ireland is “dedicated to working towards a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine.”
“It is crucial to ensure that Ukraine determines the terms, conditions, and timelines for any peace agreement,” the Tánaiste added.
Both the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste noted that they would also address the situation in Gaza during their conference meetings, covering topics such as the implementation of the hostage release and ceasefire agreement, along with the ongoing need for humanitarian support in Gaza.
“I will also explore with partners the potential for a lasting peace settlement based on a two-state solution,” Mr. Martin said.
The concept of ‘multipolarisation,’ which reflects the shift of global power towards a broader range of influential state actors, is a recurring theme throughout this year’s conference.
The conference will conclude on Sunday with discussions regarding Europe’s role on the global stage.
Additional reporting by Reuters.
