Ireland’s EU presidency officially began this week and welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Dublin. However, things became a little awkward from the outset when President Zelenskyy raised concerns about Ireland’s ties to Russian alumina. 

Zelenskyy was forced to cut short his visit due to an imminent attack on Kyiv, once again raising questions about European defence and Ireland’s role within it. 

And with Budget Day fast approaching, will defence spending receive a larger share of the national budget? 

On the subject of foreign affairs, Independent Ireland TD Ken O’Flynn’s attendance—or lack thereof—at meetings of the Foreign Affairs Committee came under scrutiny this week. 

And as the Dáil term draws to a close, what legislation is the Government hoping to get finalised before the summer recess? 

Every week the Irish Independent's political team will bring you the biggest stories, the latest analysis and the gossip from the corridors of Leinster House. New episodes every Friday. 