Sinn Féin’s soft Russian stance clear in their manifesto – Ward

Sinn Féin’s long-awaited manifesto shows just how little regard they have for the people of Ukraine, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Barry Ward, Fine Gael Senator and General Election candidate said: “As Russia’s brutal war in Ukraine enters its 1,000^th day, Sinn Féin have once again turned their backs on the people of Ukraine.

“In their much anticipated manifesto, Sinn Féin have called for countries to disarm Ukraine, which would leave them defenceless against Russia.

“Leaving Ukrainians powerless against Russia is a cruel proposal that would undoubtedly lead to the death of thousands of innocent people.

“This is clear and further proof of Sinn Féin’s soft approach to Russia and cosying up to Putin. (see notes to editors).

“This comes only a week after Sinn Féin’s two MEPs voted for a European Parliament Amendment calling for an audit to be carried out of the impact of sanctions imposed on Russia. Do Sinn Féin not believe in sanctioning Russia for their crimes?

“We all want the war in Ukraine to end, but Ukraine’s people, as well as their borders must be protected. However, Sinn Féin believe that the war must be ended, regardless of ‘geopolitical interests.’

“Do Sinn Féin not believe in Ukraine’s right to exist? Do Sinn Féin not believe in Ukraine’s territorial integrity? Would Sinn Féin be happy to see Ukraine ceding territory to Russia?

“Not only do Sinn Féin want to leave Ukraine defenceless, they also want to send Ukrainians living in Ireland back to so-called ‘safe areas’ of Ukraine no later than March 2026.

“How can Sinn Féin say with certainty that any part of Ukraine will be safe in 2026? Who is to judge where these ‘safe areas’ will be?

“In the past 1,000 days, thousands of innocent Ukrainians have died and over six million Ukrainians have been forced to leave their home in search of a safe harbour elsewhere.

“No one wants to see the war in Ukraine continue, but ensuring Ukraine’s territorial integrity is crucial, something Sinn Féin are showing absolutely no regard for.

“We will always stand with Ukraine, and we will make no apologies for it,” Senator Ward concluded.