Ireland Sheds Neutrality: Eyes Defence Ties with UK, France Amid Russian Threat Fears

• Ireland, neutral since 1922, seeks deeper defence cooperation with the UK and France due to potential Russian threats.
• Minister for Defence Helen McEntee launched the country’s first National Maritime Security Strategy, a five-year plan to safeguard sovereignty and critical undersea infrastructure.
• The strategy includes expanding regional partnerships, with British and French vessels potentially patrolling Irish-controlled waters during the upcoming EU presidency.
• Ireland will explore links with the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) and roll out military radar and sonobuoy programmes.
• Legislation is expected to expand Naval Service powers to inspect suspected Russian “shadow vessels” in Irish waters.