Richard Bruton
Question:52. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence how European defence policy has evolved since the start of the war in Ukraine. [5217/23]
View answerThursday, 2 February 2023
Questions (52)
Written answers
Since the invasion of Ukraine by Russia in February 2022, Ireland has been and remains resolute in solidarity with and support for Ukraine. Ireland continues to provide strong political and practical support for Ukraine and we continue to assert Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
At European level, significant time and effort over the past number of years has been invested in the development of the Strategic Compass, culminating in its approval in March of last year - shortly after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
This Strategic Compass sets out an analysis of the strategic environment and, in particular, the security and defence challenges faced by the EU, including emerging threats, the increasingly contested multi-polar world and the strategic implications for the EU and will help guide the way towards realising an ambitious plan of action for strengthening the EU's security and defence policy by 2030. Member States have and continue to work on the implementation of the Strategic Compass, taking into account the additional challenges faced as a consequence of Russia's actions.
In light of the war in Ukraine, the European Peace Facility has been used to provide significant support to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The seventh tranche of EPF funding was recently agreed, which will increase Ireland's commitment to €77 million. Ireland's contributions through this facility are routed exclusively to the provision of non-lethal support.
At its core, defence remains a national competence, something borne out by the differing responses and actions taken by EU Member States in the aftermath of the invasion. From decisions on defence investment and orientation taken across the Union to the choices made by Sweden and Finland in applying for NATO membership, Member States have assessed and taken action in ways which best fit their national needs.
Question No. 53 answered with Question No. 32.