Zelensky: Australia to deliver ‘significant’ new support for Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed Australia is preparing to ramp up support for his nation’s war against Russia by announcing a new tranche of military assistance, including donations of heavy weapons.
In an appearance via video link at the Lowy Institute think tank in Sydney, Zelensky urged the global community not to give in to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s “nuclear blackmail”.
Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky told the Lowy Institute he was looking forward to more military assistance from Australia
Putin would not be able to “preserve his life” if he dared to use nuclear weapons against Ukraine, Zelensky said.
“Our victory is important for Ukraine and also for the whole world,” he said.
“We have a historic opportunity to set a precedent that will turn history, that will teach any aggressor that no crime against international law will ever again be left unpunished.”
Asked what Australia could do to help Ukraine, Zelensky said the Albanese government had been preparing a “significant package” of assistance that will be announced soon.
“This process is ongoing as we speak and I’m very grateful to that,” he said. “It’s not only small arms but heavy weapons as well.”
Zelensky said that, for the upcoming round of assistance, Australia had been negotiating with other countries to announce a joint support package for Ukraine.
Ukrainian Ambassador to Australia Vasyl Myroshnychenko has publicly asked Australia to provide Ukraine with a supply of anti-ship missiles known as Harpoons and howitzer long-range weapons.
Ukraine is also asking for an additional fleet of 30 four-wheel drive vehicles on top of the 60 already provided.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addresses the Lowy Institute.Credit:YouTube/Lowy Institute
“Bushmasters really help us on the battlefield,” Zelensky said on Thursday night.
“They preserve the lives of our soldiers on the ground…The more weapons and ammunition we receive – artillery, drones, anti-aircraft, anti-tank, anti-ship missiles – the more Russia would feel the responsibility for violating international law.”
Beyond providing extra military assistance, Zelensky called for nations such as Australia to use their diplomatic clout to ensure there is a resounding condemnation of Russia at an upcoming vote against recent referendums to annex four Ukrainian regions.
“I’m asking Australia to use all of its influence to convince as many countries as possible not to remain neutral and to vote for international law and against Russian annexations,” he said.
He also called for “new and tough sanctions against Russia” as a punishment for its invasion of Ukraine.
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