Galway’s Ukrainian community will remember last week for generations. In a moment filled with emotion and deep pride, they gathered in Dublin to welcome President Volodymyr Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska on what was far more than a diplomatic engagement—it was a historic milestone. For the first time since Ukraine declared independence in 1991, a Ukrainian Head of State made an official visit to Ireland. To witness that history unfold not in Kyiv, but here in Ireland created a profound sense of connection and belonging for Ukrainians who have built new lives along Ireland’s western shores.
Following high-level meetings with Ireland’s Prime Minister, President, and Parliament, President Zelensky made time to meet with Ukrainian activists, volunteers, and community leaders from across the country. For Galway’s Ukrainians, standing face to face with their President and First Lady was both humbling and uplifting. Many spoke afterwards of feeling seen—of knowing that even far from home, they remain firmly part of Ukraine’s story.
During the meeting, President Zelensky focused on themes that resonated deeply. He stressed the essential importance of unity—unity among Ukrainians at home, and unity among those living across Europe and the wider world. He outlined Ukraine’s ongoing efforts with international partners to achieve a just and lasting peace, and reaffirmed the nation’s unwavering commitment to European integration. With Ireland set to chair the Council of the European Union next year, he shared his optimism about opening negotiation clusters that will further advance Ukraine’s path toward EU membership.
The President also spoke directly to the role Ukrainians abroad can play. Each person, he said, carries the responsibility of telling Ireland’s people about Ukraine, of shaping a positive image through their contributions to Irish society, and of inviting friends in Ireland to visit Ukraine when peace is restored. Community members raised questions about support for Ukrainian athletes and about strengthening educational programmes for weekend Ukrainian schools—topics that highlighted how determined they are to preserve culture, identity, and opportunity for the next generation.
Above all, the message that echoed through the room was one of unity and shared strength. Ukrainians everywhere are enduring difficult times, yet their collective hope—for a free, strong, and prosperous Ukraine—binds them together.
