Ireland has approved €25 million in funding for the Ukraine Energy Support Fund (UESF) to help restore and protect Ukraine’s critical energy infrastructure amid continued Russian attacks. The decision was announced by Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Helen McEntee TD and fulfils a commitment made to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his recent visit to Ireland, as outlined in the 2030 Roadmap on the Ukraine–Ireland Partnership.
Civilians across Ukraine continue to face prolonged electricity, heating, and water outages as winter temperatures fall below –20°C. Speaking from Brussels during a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, Minister McEntee described the situation as dire, citing ongoing attacks on civilian energy infrastructure as Russia “cynically weaponises extreme winter conditions” against the Ukrainian population.
The funding will support urgent efforts to restore light, heat, and essential services to homes across Ukraine during the harsh winter months. Minister McEntee reiterated Ireland’s call on Russia to halt attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure.
Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora Neale Richmond TD emphasized that the contribution demonstrates Ireland’s steadfast support for Ukraine. He noted that the funding complements Ireland’s existing humanitarian and development assistance and reaffirmed Ireland’s commitment to stand with Ukraine for as long as necessary, both during the war and throughout recovery and reconstruction.
