President Michael D Higgins says a great sense of darkness has fallen across the world at the unfolding tragedy in Ukraine.
In a statement, President Higgins says the hearts of the Irish people go out to all of those who are suffering.
He says the violence must stop and troops must be withdrawn by Russia.
The President also called for full humanitarian access to all civilians in need.
This comes as Ukrainian President Voldymyr Zelenskyy has told the European Parliament his country is fighting for its freedom.
He's been speaking at a specially convened debate on the EU's response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Yesterday, Ukraine formally signed a request for membership to the bloc - something the Taoiseach says he would support fast-tracking, but admitted is unlikely to happen.
Speaking via videolink and through a translator President Zelenskyy said nobody will break the country.
