The Communist Party of Ireland condemns the decision of the Irish government to involve itself in the seizing of Russian national assets and transferring them into a loan to Ukraine.
This unprecedented move by the EU, to which the Irish government will be a co-guarantor, will see Ireland take part in the financing of arms purchases in direct violation of the Irish Constitution. Article 29 of the Constitution clearly states that Ireland adheres to the ppeaceful settlement of international disputes through diplomacy and the principles of international law.
The theft of Russian assets in order to finance weapons purchases from NATO member states is neither legal nor consistent with any concept of peaceful resolution of conflicts. The war in Ukraine will be brought to an end by diplomacy and negotiations.
This is a significant step away from the traditional policy of neutrality, and as such it represents another step in the Irish government’s march towards militarisation and military bloc alignment, while sacrificing Ireland’s international role, diplomatic capacity, and moving funds from the needs of the people to the pockets of arms manufacturers. From the removal of the Triple Lock and campaigns of fear mongering, to NATO warships in our ports, the Government is determined to show its allegiance to the voices of war in Brussels and Washington.
As a neutral state, it should be our priority to promote dialogue and help facilitate in every way possible the bringing together of the belligerents in finding an end to conflict using every diplomatic tool, in particular the UN.
The approach of the current Irish government is a decisive shift away from the actions of a neutral state.
We should not be involved in such a strategy. The outcome of such a process will be decided by the big powers, leaving Irish people vulnerable to manipulation and involved in military actions which they have no input.
This action could well leave the people of Ireland open to potential liability in the future. This reckless action is in breach of international financial rules and deemed to be illegal.
The strategy of the government is placing the destiny of the Irish people in the hands of the big powers and strategies of the military blocs.
The actions of the EU will not end this war but only prolong it.
The UN is the only body that has the standing to act to mediate a solution, and responsible foreign policy must include resistance to imperialist efforts to undermine, sideline, and eliminate it.
