Man crashes lorry into Russian embassy in Dublin days after Irish priest daubs paint on eagle statues in anti-war protest

A van has reversed into the Russian embassy in Dublin demolishing the entrance gate, as protests against Moscow's bombardment of Ukraine were being held.

A video released by broadcaster RTI shows a lorry slowly crashing through the gates of the embassy on Monday with one man arrested, according to Irish police.

It came as protests were held outside the embassy over Russia's brutal assault on Ukraine.

Shortly before the incident, anti-war protesters sat outside the embassy trying to block the exit and entry to diplomats.

It comes as Russia launches a devastating invasion of Ukraine in an offensive that is believed to have killed thousands.

Ukrainian cities have been targeted by Russian shootings, shelling, and rocket attacks, forcing around a million people to flee their homes.

A lorry has been filmed crashing through the gates of the Russian embassy in south Dublin. It's been reported that one man has been arrested. pic.twitter.com/435xMX7nIa

— talkRADIO (@talkRADIO) March 7, 2022

Red paint was poured onto stone eagles marking the entrance to the embassy last week, while slogans against the war have been daubed on the Russian mission's perimeter.

Irish police said they are investigating the latest incident.

"Gardaí are investigating an incident of criminal damage that occurred at a property on Orwell Road this afternoon, Monday 7th March 2022 at approximately 1.30pm," they said in a statement to The New Arab.

"One male was arrested and taken to Rathfarnham Garda Station where he is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984."

Investigations remain ongoing.