Ahead of the second anniversary of Russia's brutal full-scale invasion, the Albanese Government will provide a $50 million grant to the International Fund for Ukraine, directly supporting the procurement of priority military capabilities.
The International Fund for Ukraine is administered by the United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence. It uses international partners' contributions to procure priority military equipment for Ukraine and ensure the continued supply of military support – lethal and non-lethal –through 2024 and beyond.
Australia remains steadfast in our commitment to support Ukraine and the Ukrainians who are defending their people, their territory, and their sovereignty. The contribution announced today will take Australia's overall support to Ukraine to approximately $960 million, including $780 million in assistance for Ukraine's Armed Forces.
In addition to Australia's materiel and financial support, the Australian Defence Force continues to make an important contribution to multinational efforts in support of Ukraine under Operation Kudu. Australian personnel continue to train Ukrainian soldiers as part of an extended and expanded mission in the United Kingdom.
Australia's E-7A Wedgetail aircraft is also lending its unique capabilities in Germany to help protect a vital international gateway of military and humanitarian assistance into Ukraine.
Australia again calls on Russia to immediately withdraw from Ukrainian territory and for Belarus to stop supporting Russia's senseless war.
Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:
"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."
Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles:
"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 end this war on its own terms.
"This contribution to the International Fund for Ukraine will help Ukraine procure the equipment it needs as a priority, delivering real-time effects on the battlefield."
Quotes attributable to Foreign Minister Penny Wong:
"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."