75. Deputy Shay Brennan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her views on the increasingly aggressive, reckless and irresponsible Russian behaviour towards EU Member States, including foreign information manipulation and interference, and threats against the European diplomatic presence in Ukraine; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50133/26]

I strongly condemn the recent escalatory action undertaken by the Russian Federation against EU Member States. These are not the actions of a country interested in peace.

Failing on the battlefield, Russia's belligerence towards Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia and others is particularly egregious.

The Russian drone strike on an apartment block on 29 May in Galati, Romania, also constitutes a serious violation of Romania's sovereignty. Ireland and the EU both issued statements of condemnation. Russia cannot be allowed to continue violating European airspace with impunity.

On 25 May, Russia issued a call for foreign citizens, including the personnel of diplomatic missions and international organisations, to evacuate Kyiv due to Russia's intent for further strikes on the city. These blatant threats and attempts to intimidate diplomats and civilians in Kyiv are completely unacceptable. I reject them entirely.

Threats against diplomats and international organizations are not a sign of strength. They are a sign of desperation.

Further, through its sustained pursuit of hybrid campaigns, including foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI), Russia represents a major threat to stability, democracy and social cohesion throughout Europe and beyond.

Ireland continues to work together with our EU counterparts to counter these activities. This work includes implementation of the EU’s hybrid, cyber and FIMI toolboxes. We support the full use of all tools available to prevent, deter and respond to Russia’s hybrid activities, including through sanctions.

During Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union, we will work to progress the EU agenda on hybrid and cyber threats and focus on strengthening the EU response to FIMI.