After a phone call between Albanese and Zelensky, Australia pledges $31 million in aid to Ukraine
The Coalition welcomed the funding but raised questions that still need to be addressed.
The Albanese government has committed an additional $31 million to Ukraine for energy and humanitarian aid in the midst of the ongoing conflict with Russia.
This decision comes after Ukraine’s plea for energy assistance ahead of the winter for six months, followed by a discussion between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on May 29.
On May 31, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Australia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, expressed gratitude on social media for Australia’s extra support.
The additional aid responds to calls from Mr. Myroshnychenko and the Opposition to assist Ukraine with its energy requirements for the upcoming winter.
Meanwhile, Coalition Shadow Foreign Minister Simon Birmingham and Shadow Minister for Resources Susan McDonald stated that the support for Ukraine “should have come sooner.”
Overall, Australia has provided over $1 billion in aid to Ukraine during the conflict, including $880 million in military assistance.
Where Will the $31 Million Go?
The taxpayer-funded package includes $20 million for the Ukraine Energy Support Fund to ensure heat and electricity for the Ukrainian citizens. This fund is a collaboration between the European Commission and Ukraine’s Ministry of Energy.
Additionally, $10 million in emergency humanitarian aid will be channeled to the United Nations to enhance access to essential resources like water, food, and shelter.
A further $1 million will be allocated to a United Nations partnership focusing on the rights of individuals with disabilities.
In light of the additional funding, Australia has called for an end to Russia’s “illegal and senseless war” against Ukraine.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized that the $20 million contribution to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund will directly assist in meeting critical energy requirements and supporting the Ukrainian population.
“As Russia escalates its brutal attacks on the Ukrainian people, there is a pressing need for life-saving humanitarian assistance,” stated Ms. Wong.
“The Albanese Government remains fully committed to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” she added.
International Development Minister Pat Conroy highlighted the remarkable resilience and bravery shown by the Ukrainian people in defending their nation and independence.
“The Australian Government stands firm in its pledge to support the Ukrainian people and work alongside partner countries to enable Ukraine to bring an end to this conflict on their own terms,” Minister Conroy affirmed.
Ukraine Ambassador to Australia Welcomes Support
Ukraine’s ambassador to Australia, Mr. Myroshnychenko, described Australia’s assistance as “timely” in a social media post on May 31.
This acknowledgement followed Mr. Myroshnychenko’s previous concerns on May 26 about Australia’s delayed response to Ukraine’s request for energy aid that was sent six months earlier.
“Ukraine pleaded for help from Australia six months ago. It hasn’t received a reply,” he stated on social media.
He emphasized the urgency of an uninterrupted supply of thermal coal for Ukraine, stressing that it is essential for survival during the winter and for sustaining essential economic activities.
Coalition Offers Unwavering Support For Ukraine
The Coalition expressed absolute and unwavering support for Ukraine in its struggle against the Russian invasion.
However, Shadow Foreign Minister Mr. Birmingham and Shadow Resources Minister Ms. McDonald highlighted the need for government transparency by addressing lingering queries.
The Coalition seeks explanations for the prolonged response time to Ukraine’s coal request and why a fund transfer is preferred over supplying requested Australian coal directly.
“Australia’s response to Ukraine should be swift and decisive, especially during wartime,” stated Mr. Birmingham and Ms. McDonald jointly.
“The conflict in Ukraine extends beyond the country itself, reflecting global principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the determination to resist authoritarian aggression,” they added.
“Having established Australia as a leading non-NATO contributor to Ukraine’s defense, the Coalition continues to advocate for increased assistance, urging the Albanese government to maintain a strong stance,” concluded Mr. Birmingham and Mr. Hastie on April 28.
