The Australian government will provide another $50 million (US$32 million) to an international fund for Ukraine.
Australia has now given $960 million worth of taxpayer funds to Ukraine, including $780 million for the Ukraine armed forces.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia remains “steadfast in supporting Ukraine to defend itself against Russia’s illegal and immoral invasion.”
“We stand with Ukraine in support of its courageous people and also in defence of a fundamental principle—the right of every sovereign nation to be secure in its own borders and to determine its own future,” he said.
The government has also called on Russia to “immediately withdraw from Ukrainian territory and for Belarus to stop supporting Russia’s senseless war.”
Aside from material and funding support, the Australian Defence Force is also assisting with global efforts to help Ukraine as part of Operation Kudu.
For example, personnel are continuing to train Ukrainian soldiers as part of an extended and expanded mission in the United Kingdom.
The Australian E-7A Wedgetail aircraft has also been deployed to Germany to protect an international gateway of military and humanitarian aid to the Ukraine.
Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles said this latest contribution would help Ukraine procure the equipment it needs as a priority, providing “real-time effects on the battlefield.”
“Almost two years on from Russia’s illegal and immoral invasion, Australia continues to stand with Ukraine and our international partners in providing meaningful support to enable Ukraine to end this war on its own terms,” he said.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong said, “Australia steadfastly supports Ukraine in their fight for freedom, as they defend the fundamental principles that underpin a stable, peaceful and prosperous world.
“We are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with the brave Ukrainians who are defending their people, their territory, and their sovereignty.”
US Senate Passes Ukraine Package
The news comes after the United States Senate passed a $95 billion spending bill on defense, including $61 billion worth of support for Ukraine.The foreign aid package also includes $14 billion for Israel, and $4.83 billion for Indo-Pacific partners including Taiwan.
This legislation passed the Senate with support from the Democrats and 22 Republicans (70-29), after an all-night session.
Two Democrats voted “no,” amid concerns about funding for Israel, while supporters of former President Trump also opposed the legislation.
This legislation, however, is yet to reach the House of Representatives, with Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La) indicating he will not even put the bill up for a vote.
