Zelenskyy thanks Ireland for 'generosity' and support as he kicks off State visit

The Ukrainian president was at Áras an Uachtaráin to meet President Catherine Connolly

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy has thanked Ireland for its "generosity" in providing temporary shelter to Ukrainians displaced by the Russian invasion.

Mr Zelenskyy was speaking after arriving at Áras an Uachtaráin, where he met President Catherine Connolly.

He signed the visitors' book at the Áras, saying it "is a great honour to visit Ireland" alongside his wife, Olena Zelenska, and to have been greeted by President Connolly.

"On behalf of the people of Ukraine, I express my sincere gratitude for Ireland's steadfast support during our fight against Russian aggression," Mr Zelenskyy said.

"We greatly appreciate Ireland's generosity in providing temporary shelter to displaced Ukrainians.

"Ukraine values its friendship with Ireland and is committed to deepening our cooperation in pursuit of a just and lasting peace."

A message left by Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the visitors’ book at Áras an Uachtaráin.

Questions on whether or not Ukraine should receive the military aid it has requested were put to the two presidents, but they did not respond before being ushered to an adjoining room.

However, Mr Zelenskyy appeared to indicate he would answer questions at a later press conference.