Ireland to close its airspace to Russian airlines

The Ireland Government is to move to shut Irish airspace to Russian aircraft and carriers.

The development would affect Russian airplanes flying over Ireland and any direct flights.

It is understood there will be a short notice period before the move takes effect.

While there are no direct flights available to Russia from Ireland, Aeroflot was due to commence a direct route from Dublin to Moscow in May.

The decision by the Government follows a similar move by the UK on Friday. The move will be enforced by the Irish Aviation Authority.

The development comes ahead of a third meeting of the EU’s Foreign Affairs Council, which is expected to agree further sanctions against Russia.

The virtual meeting will adopt further measures in support of Ukraine and against “aggression by Russia”, EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell said.

“I will propose a package of emergency assistance for the Ukrainian armed forces, to support them in their heroic fight,” he said on Twitter, adding that the meeting would start this evening.

Last night, Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney advised Irish citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to Russia.

News courtesy: RTE

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