Defense Minister Richard Marles has just revealed an additional $100 million in Australian support and resources for Ukraine, answering Kyiv's urgent call for increased international backing in its battle against Russian aggression.
Of this funding, $50 million is earmarked for short-range air defense systems, while $30 million is allocated for drones to bolster Ukraine's military capabilities, alongside another $15 million for essential equipment such as helmets, inflatable boats, boots, fire masks, and electricity generators.
Mr. Marles made this announcement during a brief trip to Ukraine, where he engaged in discussions with Prime Minister Denys Shmyal and Deputy Defense Minister Ivan Havryliuk.
"Despite enduring over two years of Russia's relentless invasion, Ukraine's resilience remains unbroken," stated Mr. Marles.
This latest allocation brings Australia's military assistance to Ukraine to a total of $880 million since the onset of Russia's illegal aggression in 2022.
Among the aid already provided by Australia are 120 Bushmaster armored vehicles and six Howitzer artillery guns, with Australian troops playing a pivotal role in training Ukrainian soldiers under Operation Kudu in the United Kingdom.
Meanwhile, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been urgently appealing to allies for increased support, particularly for crucial defense systems like the Patriot surface-to-air missile systems, essential for safeguarding Ukrainian cities.
In light of recent Russian missile attacks targeting power facilities in central and western Ukraine, President Zelenskyy stressed the urgency of acquiring such defensive measures to save lives.
As part of broader diplomatic efforts, Mr. Marles also engaged with his Polish counterpart Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz during his European visit, highlighting both countries' commitment to supporting Ukraine while acknowledging the broader strategic landscape in Europe.
Reflecting this commitment, a Royal Australian Air Force Wedgetail surveillance plane, previously deployed to aid Ukraine in Europe, has returned to Australia.
Comments
Post a Comment