On November 12, 2026, fifty world leaders gathered in Dublin for the ninth European Political Community summit, a high-stakes meeting overshadowed by regional security concerns and backchannel diplomacy.
The event at Dublin’s Convention Centre marked the largest policing operation in the history of the Irish State, accompanying the European Political Community summit. Despite disruptions across the city, including Luas and bus diversions reported by The Irish Times, the day involved discussions on topics such as Ukraine policy and regional security.
Europe Plays a Role in Ukraine and Russia Peace Talks
Discussions in Dublin centered heavily on Europe’s role in prospective peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. US envoy Jared Kushner stated earlier in the week that the EU must be involved to guarantee future security, a demand echoed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Attention quickly pivoted to who should represent the bloc. Taoiseach Micheál Martin suggested a team effort rather than a single individual. Vice President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas reminded reporters that discussions in 2024 pointed toward herself, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President Antonio Costa, though EU27 leaders might pursue a different path.
As in every #EPC summit, Ukraine was at the heart of today’s discussions in Dublin. Since the start of the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine, it has been clear that Europe’s security and peace in Ukraine are inseparable. https://t.co/8KixeuoihM
French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz downplayed the urgency of naming a representative immediately. Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee expressed hope that a decision would emerge at the European Council meeting.
Bilateral Talks at Baldonnel and Drone Discussions
Zelenskyy held a closely watched evening meeting with US envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff at Baldonnel Aerodrome on the outskirts of Dublin, coming straight from their discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, as detailed by The Journal.
Today in Dublin, a multilateral meeting of Ukraine’s friends, our biggest partners, took place. I thank @andyburnham for organizing it. I am grateful to @EmmanuelMacron, @bundeskanzler Friedrich Merz, @donaldtusk, @PetteriOrpo, @AndrisKulbergs, @KristenMichalPM, Mette Frederiksen… pic.twitter.com/a3FnyCm7hD
On the eve of the summit, Zelenskyy disclosed that Ukraine was prepared for co-production with Ireland on a drone deal intended to become operational soon. The arrangement would involve Ireland procuring advanced drone technology and receiving Ukrainian training, increasing domestic defensive capabilities while offering financial support during wartime.
Martin confirmed the Government was exploring the possibility, while McEntee said that discussions remained in early stages.
Addressing Hybrid Threats and Broadening Alliances
Regional security dominated the agenda against the backdrop of recent hybrid attacks targeting schools, airlines, and media organizations across Europe. Al Jazeera said that Italian schools faced widespread bomb warning hoaxes ahead of the summit.
Martin addressed these challenges directly, telling reporters that those responsible seek to “create confusion, sow division and weaken public confidence in our democratic systems.”
Together with my team, we are beginning our visit to Ireland. We have already arrived in Dublin to attend the 9th European Political Community Summit. Bilateral and multilateral meetings with our partners are scheduled for today and tomorrow. Around 20 leaders in total. I will… pic.twitter.com/fAJJMuk3P2
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham co-chaired a Friends of Ukraine roundtable, pledging complete support to Zelenskyy ahead of a UK-EU summit in Brussels. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also attended.
Macron Urges Europe to Lead on Security and Support Ukraine
As the EPC’s principal architect, French President Emmanuel Macron drew intense media attention upon his arrival.
Wrapping up a successful #EPC in Dublin, a summit that brought the EU together with partners from across our continent and beyond for the security and resilience of Europe. pic.twitter.com/Qw6cJKpD5h
Macron said there is “no more US support” for Ukraine, insisting it was time Europe took control of the situation. “At the end of the day, will be the one to decide for our future security as Europeans,” he added.
At the closing press conference, Martin summarized the four primary outcomes of the leaders' discussions: steadfast support for Ukraine, enhanced cooperation against hybrid attacks, using technological developments for innovative capacity, and securing clean, affordable energy for European citizens and businesses.
As attention shifts from Dublin to future negotiations, European leaders face the challenge of turning their seat at the table into real influence that can shape an eventual peace deal.
