Russian Embassy in Australia Evacuated After Suspicious Package Found

Emergency services are seen at Russia’s Embassy after a suspicious package was found, in Canberra, Australia, on March 3, 2022. AAP Image/Mick Tsikas

The Russian Embassy in the Australian capital, Canberra, has been evacuated after two suspicious packages were delivered to the building on March 3.

Emergency services were dispatched to investigate the substance, with authorities placing an emergency filtration tent around the item.

ACT Policing confirmed with The Epoch Times that local law enforcement and emergency services were notified of the package at 10.05 a.m. Australian EST.

“The contents of the package are currently being assessed,” a spokesperson said. “A cordon is in place, and the public is urged to avoid the area until further notice.”

Investigators could also be seen wearing HAZMAT suits around the Russian embassy which is located in the suburb of Griffith, just a short distance from Parliament House—the site of protests days earlier in response to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.

People protest against Russia's invasion of Ukraine outside the Russian embassy in Canberra, Australia, on Feb. 26, 2022. Stringer/AFP via Getty Images

The cordon was removed at 3.30 p.m., and an investigation is currently underway.

ACT Policing reminded the community that malicious or threatening material sent in the mail is an offence and would be taken seriously by law enforcement.

The Australian community and businesses have expressed solidarity with Ukrainians caught up in the invasion started by Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

Parliament House and the Sydney Opera House have been lit up with the colours of the Ukrainian flag.

Meanwhile, the federal government has moved in lockstep with democratic nations in sending aid (lethal and non-lethal) to Ukraine forces, rolling out tough sanctions against Putin’s inner circle, as well as taking countermeasures to soften the shock the Ukraine conflict is having on the world economy.

On March 2, the energy minister announced Australia would join 31 other nations of the International Energy Agency in releasing 60 million barrels of oil from emergency reserves.

“This significant action—one of four ever taken by the IEA—will increase supplies to the market, helping to put downward pressure on prices both globally and here at home,” according to Angus Taylor.

Australia has also pledged US$50 million to assist Ukraine with the purchase of military equipment and weapons.

“We will be answering the call from (Ukrainian) President Zelensky. He said, ‘Don’t give me a ride, give me ammunition,’ and that is exactly what the Australian government has agreed to do,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said.