Leaders from more than 40 European countries gathered in Dublin on Thursday for the ninth European Political Community (EPC) summit to address regional security and a growing series of hybrid attacks across the continent.
The summit, which also included an Informal meeting of EU Heads of State or Government (iEUCO) on November 13, prompted the largest policing and security operation in the history of the Irish State.
The summit, held at the Convention Centre Dublin, focused on responding to a recent surge in cyberattacks and hoaxes targeting airlines, media outlets, schools, and essential infrastructure. Micheál Martin said those responsible for the attacks seek to “create confusion, sow division and weaken public confidence in our democratic systems”.
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
He further noted, “We will not allow them to succeed. We will continue to use forums like this to share our experiences, learn from one another and to work together to protect our democracies.” During the event, the Taoiseach outlined four primary takeaways from the discussions: unwavering support for Ukraine, enhanced cooperation against hybrid threats, a commitment to technological innovation, and the pursuit of affordable energy for European citizens and businesses.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who participated in the sessions, said that the alliance is working to stay ahead of these threats. Mr. Rutte emphasized that additional efforts are required to ramp up industrial output and adopt a whole-of-society approach to resilience.
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
In addition to his EPC participation, the Secretary General held bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen of Denmark, Prime Minister Donald Tusk of Poland, and the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
President Volodymyr Zelensky disclosed that his country was “ready for co-production” with Ireland on a drone deal and he expected this agreement to “become operational”. It is understood that the deal would see the Government procure advanced drone technology from Ukraine, with training then provided by the Ukrainians for their use.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham also participated in a Friends of Ukraine roundtable, where he pledged the United Kingdom’s “complete support” to Zelensky. President Emmanuel Macron stated, “At the end of the day, we will be the one to decide for our future security as Europeans.” Discussions also touched upon the potential for an envoy to represent Europe in peace talks with Russia.
The security operation involved 5,000 gardaí. Extensive traffic and public transport restrictions were implemented from November 10 to 13. The National Transport Authority advised that bus, Luas, and private vehicle travel would be disrupted. Specifically, bus services were diverted from Merrion Square on November 12 and 13, and services on the quays east of Custom House were diverted throughout the four-day period.
.@SEPeaceMissions, @jaredkushner, and I met in Ireland following all the negotiations held this week. First, a humanitarian outcome – prisoners will be released, and we are counting on the largest prisoner exchange since the start of this war. The second outcome – we are… pic.twitter.com/C7VvLrCnNR
Luas Red Line services were also curtailed; the Mayor Square and Spencer Dock stops were closed from 8 p.m. on Wednesday, November 11. Following concerts on Thursday and Friday, a limited Luas service operated westward from The Point. Despite the restrictions, the DAA confirmed that flights at Dublin Airport would not be disrupted, though passengers were cautioned to allow extra time for travel and to verify their bus routes.
Road closures included the North Wall Quay between Samuel Beckett Bridge and Spencer Place from November 10 to 13, with an extended security cordon enforced from November 11 to 13. Additional patrols were deployed along the Naul Road, R108, R132, and Old Airport Road, while access to aircraft viewing stands was restricted. Security checks were also implemented for residents and businesses within the vicinity of the venues.
In Dublin, I met with the national security advisors of the E4 countries – the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy – as well as those of the European Commission and the European Council. I thanked them for their engagement in communication with the American side, their… pic.twitter.com/Dh6OUHshbh