Martin heads to Copenhagen to discuss European defence and economic security

Micheál Martin is also expected to raise the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and efforts to end the war

During his visit, Taoiseach Micheál Martin will co chair a roundtable discussion on economic security with the prime minister of Iceland Picture: Mark Stedman

European defence, sanctions on Russia, and the ongoing war in the Middle East will be discussed in Copenhagen as Taoiseach Micheál Martin travels to Denmark for two days of engagements.

Mr Martin will attend the informal meeting of heads of state or Government of EU member states in Copenhagen. The gathering has been organised as part of the Danish presidency of the Council of the EU, which Ireland will assume in July 2026.

The meeting will focus on strengthening European common defence readiness and reinforcing support for Ukraine.

The Taoiseach is also expected to raise the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and efforts to end the war.

The discussions regarding defence will centre on how to deliver on the EU’s 2030 defence readiness target. A further session will focus on further military and financial support to Ukraine, while also increasing pressure on Russia through further sanctions.

On Thursday, the European Political Community will meet, with the invite list extended to several other European countries, including the UK and Ukraine.

The Taoiseach will co chair a roundtable discussion on economic security with the prime minister of Iceland. He will also attend an event focused on addressing the shared challenge of cross-border illicit drug trafficking, as well as several bilateral meetings.

“As the people of Ukraine continue to endure relentless and brutal bombardment by Russia, it is vital that the EU keeps up its efforts to strengthen our economic, political, and military support for Ukraine,” Mr Martin said.

Our focus remains on achieving a just and lasting peace for Ukraine, and, therefore, leaders will consider how to increase pressure on Russia to agree to a ceasefire and meaningful negotiations, including by stepping up sanctions and other economic measures.

“Leaders will also take stock of the significant progress made by the Coalition of the Willing on security guarantees for Ukraine and discuss the EU’s contribution. 

"EU membership for Ukraine must be part of a comprehensive set of security guarantees, and I will continue to push for the unblocking and acceleration of Ukraine’s accession negotiations. Ukraine is doing the hard work of reforms. The EU must also do our part."

The ongoing onslaught against Ukraine and its violation of the territory of EU Member States in recent weeks only underlines the serious threat posed by Russia to collective security, Mr Martin said.

I look forward to continuing discussions on how to ensure that we have the capabilities we need to counter the threats we face and what more we can do together.

“This can also help with our efforts to enhance our defence capabilities at home, particularly in the areas of cyber defence and maritime security. We are doing so in full respect for our policy of military neutrality, which is fully understood and respected by our EU partners.”

The European leaders’ trips to Copenhagen come just a week after drone incur

sions forced several airports to close. There were further drones observed flying over military facilities last weekend.

All drone flights have been banned in Danish airspace this week ahead of the European summits.