TAOISEACH MICHEÁL MARTIN will this morning travel to Brussels for a meeting of the European Council, with Ukraine and energy issues up for discussion among EU leaders.

The meeting, which will take place over the next two days, is set to focus on the ongoing war in Ukraine alongside the energy crisis.

Ahead of the visit, the Taoiseach said that the EU remains “steadfast” in support of Ukraine, adding that this meeting was an opportunity to discuss humanitarian and financial aid.

“This week’s meeting is an opportunity to discuss in particular Ukraine’s financial and humanitarian needs as winter approaches,” said Martin.

It comes as European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen said that the EU should be purchasing natural gas together.

“Instead of outbidding each other, Europeans should buy gas together. Very simple,” said Von der Leyen, adding that pooling demand for gas was “a must”.

The Taoiseach said that there would be further measures proposed at EU level that needed “careful consideration”.

“The only certain path to energy security and sustainable prices is to accelerate the green transition – boosting investment in future-ready energy infrastructure, increasing interconnection and rolling out innovative renewable technologies,” Martin added.