UKRAINE PRESIDENT HONOURED IN FIRST OFFICIAL STATE VISIT

UKRAINIAN President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Ireland for never losing faith in his country, as he said there's a “real chance” for peace.

- BY CIARA O'LOUGHLIN Political Correspondent

Mr Zelensky arrived at Dublin Airport at around 11pm on Monday for his first official state visit to the country.

He had a packed day of engagements yesterday as his trip to Ireland made global headlines amidst a critical time in peace negotiations.

The Ukrainian President's one-day itinerary began at Aras an Uachtarain, where he was met by President Catherine Connolly.

Before this, President Zelensky met with his Ukrainian delegation in Dublin where he was updated on peace talks.

The high-level visit was a first for President Connolly since she took office earlier this month.

Despite it being a fleeting visit, the red carpet was rolled out for President Zelensky at the entrance to the Aras, as workers ensured it was perfectly hoovered for the guest.

He was joined by his wife Olena Zelenska, and they signed the visitors' book in President Connolly's study.