Ukrainian president arrives in Dublin ahead of major EU presidency event

Detailed summary

European leaders are set to follow Volodymyr Zelensky’s arrival in the Irish capital this week.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky is in Ireland ahead of two major EU presidency events this week.

Mr Zelensky was greeted by Irish premier Micheál Martin as he arrived at Government Buildings in Dublin on Wednesday evening ahead of a bilateral with the Taoiseach.

The two men shook hands and exchanged greetings as well as stopping briefly for pictures before moving inside.

Mr Zelensky’s arrival comes amid the biggest security operation in the history of the Irish state, as authorities in Dublin mount a ring of steel throughout the capital.

Traffic restrictions and road closures in Dublin are to be brought in from Wednesday, as commuters were warned of severe traffic delays.

As delegates arrive for two major EU presidency events on Thursday and Friday, police in Dublin have shut down parts of the city as part of the largest policing and security operation.

More than 50 world leaders will visit Dublin for the European Political Community (EPC) summit on Thursday, followed by an informal meeting of the EU Council on Friday.

Both events will take place at the Convention Centre on the North Wall Quay and will be followed by a dinner event at the National Gallery on the south side of the city.

Vast barriers have been put in place around the area, preventing access to vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians.

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