Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a significant boost in support for Ukraine, committing an additional $60 million during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in New York. This package includes $45 million in Australian Defence Force equipment, $10 million for Ukraine’s energy support fund, and $5 million in humanitarian assistance.
The announcement coincided with the signing of a 10-year bilateral security agreement between Australia and Ukraine, aimed at enhancing military cooperation. This agreement outlines increased military training and plans to explore joint ventures in air-defense systems, missiles, and drone production.
With this latest commitment, Australia’s total support for Ukraine since the onset of Russia’s invasion in 2022 will reach approximately $1.9 billion. Albanese emphasized that Australia’s support underscores the importance of upholding international law and acknowledged the broader global implications of the conflict in Ukraine.
President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the agreement, highlighting its potential to bolster cooperation in security and trade between the two nations. He noted that the framework would remain pertinent beyond the current conflict, offering a basis for continued collaboration during peacetime.