Australia has pledged an additional $100 million in military aid to Ukraine, marking a significant increase in its support as the Eastern European nation continues to resist Russian aggression. This latest commitment brings Australia’s total military assistance to $880 million since the conflict escalated with Russia’s full-scale invasion.
The newly announced package includes critical defensive systems and equipment that Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles emphasized would help Ukraine “resolve the conflict on its terms.” Among the aid, $50 million is allocated for short-range air defense systems, highlighting the urgency of protecting Ukrainian skies against persistent Russian aerial attacks. An additional $30 million will be directed towards the purchase of drones as part of an international drone coalition led by the United Kingdom and Latvia, further enhancing Ukraine’s surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
During his visit to Lviv, Marles also confirmed a $15 million investment in high-priority equipment such as combat helmets, rigid hull inflatable boats, boots, fire masks, and generators. This contribution, according to Marles, signifies Australia’s “unwavering commitment” to Kyiv and its cause.
Previously, Australia has provided substantial military hardware to Ukraine, including 120 Bushmaster vehicles, six 155mm howitzers, 56 M113 armored vehicles, and over 500 drones manufactured by the Australian company Sypaq.
The announcement comes against the backdrop of the United States Congress passing a supplemental spending bill that includes $61 billion in aid for Ukraine, reflecting a global effort to support Kyiv amidst Russian aggression.
In addition to material support, Australia has demonstrated a commitment to long-term strategic cooperation with Ukraine. During his visit, Marles discussed the conflict’s global implications and Ukraine’s ongoing resistance with his Polish counterpart and Ukrainian officials. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal expressed gratitude for Australia’s solidarity, underscoring the shared values and priorities between the two nations. He noted that while geographically distant, both countries are united in their fight for global security and just peace.
The increased Australian assistance arrives as Ukraine calls for additional air defense systems to shield its cities and front-line troops from missile attacks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has emphasized the critical need for such systems, stating that Russian jets have used over 9,000 guided aerial bombs against Ukraine this year alone.
Relevant articles:
– Australia tops up Ukraine military aid with $100M, Breaking Defense, 04/28/2024
– Australian Defence Minister announces $100 million military aid package for Ukraine, WION, Sat, 27 Apr 2024 16:05:23 GMT
– Drones and air defense: Australia is preparing a new military aid package for Ukraine, Militarnyi, Sat, 27 Apr 2024 15:55:35 GMT
– Australia vows to support Ukraine until war ends – and only on Kyiv’s terms, Sydney Morning Herald, Sun, 28 Apr 2024 09:30:00 GMT
– Australia backs Ukraine with $100-mln military aid, Yahoo Singapore News, Sun, 28 Apr 2024 07:19:57 GMT