Albanese on Peacekeeping Talks in Ukraine: The Battle for International Rule of Law

March 15, 2025 TruthUSA

Australian Prime Minister Albanese participated in a recent meeting of the “Coalition of the Willing” after Ukraine agreed to the 30-day ceasefire proposed by the United States.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosted the virtual meeting on Saturday night, which included the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and leaders from Europe, Canada, and New Zealand.

Albanese shared in a post on X that leaders have committed to continue working towards supporting Ukraine in tangible ways now and in the future.

“This is not just a struggle for the people of Ukraine and their sovereignty. It is a battle for international rule of law,” commented Albanese.

Albanese also conveyed concerns about President Vladimir Putin’s expansionist agenda and emphasized the need for the Coalition to ensure that Russia’s actions are not rewarded in any potential peace agreements.

“Australia stands in favor of any meaningful efforts towards a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and broader security in Europe. However, it is crucial to exert pressure on Russia to engage sincerely,” he added.

The Prime Minister restated Australia’s unwavering support for Ukraine and reassured that Australia will stand by Ukraine for as long as necessary.

“Supporting Ukraine is the right thing to do and is in Australia’s national interest. Events in the Euro-Atlantic region have significant impacts on our region—the Indo-Pacific—and vice versa,” he explained.

Australia has pledged $1.5 billion (US$949 million) to assist Ukraine in defending itself, including $1.3 billion in military aid.

The meeting focused on bolstering Ukraine, preparing for defense through the Coalition of the Willing, and maintaining pressure on Russia.

Starmer emphasized the importance of enhancing Ukraine’s military capabilities, funding, and support to enable them to defend themselves in order to pave the way for a secure and lasting peace.

“The world is observing,” he remarked after the meeting.

“And it’s my belief that sooner or later Putin will have to engage in meaningful discussions.”

US Suspension of Aid and Ceasefire Proposal

The meeting built upon increased diplomatic efforts among European and other Western countries following the suspension of U.S. aid to Ukraine by President Donald Trump suspended.

The United States put forward a 30-day ceasefire, extendable by mutual agreement of both parties and subject to acceptance and simultaneous implementation by Russia. Zelenskyy agreed and committed to a 30-day unconditional ceasefire.

The Trump administration indicated that Russian reciprocity is critical for achieving peace, and on March 11, lifted the pause on intelligence sharing and resumed security aid to Ukraine.

Starmer accused Putin of stalling peace negotiations.

“If Putin genuinely seeks peace, the solution is straightforward: halt the brutal attacks on Ukraine and accept a ceasefire,” he stated.

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