Anthony Albanese Announces $110 Million Military Package for Ukraine

Australia, under the leadership of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, has pledged an additional $110 million in support to Ukraine as Russia’s illegal war enters its 16th month. The assistance package, approved by the cabinet, aims to make a tangible difference for Ukrainians who have shown great courage in the face of Russia’s illegal and immoral war. The package includes 70 military vehicles, ammunition, and a $10 million contribution to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Additionally, Australia will extend tariff-free access for goods from Ukraine for another year to support their economy.

Prime Minister Albanese emphasized Australia’s commitment to train Ukrainian forces and engage with Ukraine as long as necessary to support President Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian people in their struggle. The announcement of the military package follows a chaotic weekend in Russia, where a rebellion threat by the head of Russia’s private army, the Wagner Group, against the government and march on Moscow was averted. Prime Minister Albanese described the situation as “bizarre” from a distance but stressed the need for increased support to maintain Ukraine’s sovereignty.

Opposition foreign affairs spokesman Simon Birmingham and opposition defence spokesman Andrew Hastie welcomed the additional military and humanitarian support for Ukraine but criticized the timing, deeming it “too little, too late.” They questioned why the package did not include the specific military capabilities Ukraine had publicly requested and expressed concerns about the time it would take for the new vehicles to reach Ukraine.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton echoed the concerns of his colleagues, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate support. Mr. Dutton questioned why other requested military equipment, such as Hawkei vehicles, was not provided and called for prompt action to prevent further loss of lives.

Prime Minister Albanese reiterated his call for President Putin to withdraw from the illegal invasion and retreat behind Russia’s borders. Meanwhile, in a separate development, Russia lost a High Court bid to retain control of land near Parliament House in Canberra, where it planned to build a new embassy. Australia passed legislation to reclaim the land, citing national security concerns, and the High Court ruled in favor of Australia. Prime Minister Albanese urged Russia to abide by the court’s ruling and remove its presence from the site.