Kildare senator meets President Zelenskyy on Ukraine trip 

NAAS-BORN charity founder and Seanad senator, Aubrey McCarthy, travelled to Kyiv in Ukraine to meet President Volodymyr Zelensky on Ukrainian Independence Day.

Aubrey’s charity, Tiglin, helps its service users overcome addiction and homelessness in a person-centred, holistic approach. “Believing in each person’s potential, Tiglin provides both immediate support and long-term solutions,” which is written on the charity’s website.

In 2024, the charity obtained an accommodation centre in Bray called Loreto, which provides a temporary home to individuals and families displaced by the war in Ukraine.

The official website reads: “In a time of immense uncertainty, Loreto stands as a place of refuge, hope, and new beginnings — with an eye toward lasting impact and collaboration.” Senator McCarthy represented Ireland at the celebrations and National Prayer Breakfast, hosted on Sunday, August 24.

During his trip the senator took part in a series of meetings with Ukrainian officials, including President Zelenskyy himself, along with Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, Ruslan Steganchuk and Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze.

His visit represented a strong bond between Ireland and Ukraine, showcasing Ireland’s solidarity with the country and its people.

Senator McCarthy marked the occasion online and said: “Today, we honour Ukraine’s Independence Day. A celebration of courage, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of a people who continue to inspire us all.” “From Greystones to Kyiv, the bonds of friendship grow stronger. Proud to stand with our Ukrainian community in Ireland and beyond.”