The Australian government is set to provide an additional $20 million (US$12.8 million) worth of military assistance to Ukraine.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the new funding while he was in the United States for an official state visit at the invitation of President Joe Biden.
The White House sent Congress a request on Oct. 20 for US$61.4 billion to support Ukraine against Russia.
Australia’s total support to Ukraine is about $910 million dollars including the new funding announced on Oct. 25.
The new funding will be for defence equipment including counter-drone systems, de-mining equipment, portable x-ray machines, and a 3D metal printer.
Mr. Albanese said Australia remains steadfast in supporting Ukraine to defend itself against “Russia’s illegal and immoral invasion.”
“This contribution will provide Ukraine with some of the best capabilities in the world, while investing in Australia’s sovereign defence industry and technology sector,” Mr. Albanese said.
Furthermore, he shared, “I’m proud to confirm the E-7A Wedgetail has arrived in Germany to commence its important mission. Australia is honoured to provide this aircraft to help protect the vital lifeline of humanitarian aid and military assistance entering Ukraine.”
The equipment for Ukraine is being developed by Australian defence industry companies DroneShield, Micro-X, Minelab, and SPEE3D.
A Royal Australian Air Force E-7A Wedgetail plane has also been sent to Germany as part of international efforts to protect the gateway of humanitarian and military support for Ukraine.
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Miles said Australia continues to stand with Ukraine and work with partners to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“We are proud to see Australian companies helping international efforts to support Ukraine to end Russia’s illegal invasion, on its own terms,” Mr. Marles said.
“With the deployment of the E-7A, the Australian Defence Force is making an important contribution to multi-national efforts protecting the gateway of humanitarian and military assistance into Ukraine.”
Speaking at Blair House in Washington DC, Mr. Albanese said Australian innovation would equip the brave people of Ukraine with “some of the best capabilities in the world”.
“Of course, in this time of uncertainty and conflict—it’s important to recognise that innovation plays a pivotal role in building a more secure world,” Mr. Albanese said.
“That’s why today I am proud to announce that Australia will deliver an additional $20 million of defence assistance to Ukraine, in the form of innovative and locally-developed industry equipment.”
White House Dinner
This comes as Mr. Biden and First Lady Jill Biden invited Australia’s Prime Minister and partner Jodie Haydon to the White House on Oct. 24 for a private dinner.“Welcome to the White House,” President Biden said before posing for photos and entering the residence.
The private dinner is a prelude to a state dinner on Oct. 25 with 100 guests and live entertainment.
In a briefing to reporters ahead of the state visit, John Kirby, National Security Council’s coordinator for strategic communications, highlighted that the Middle East, clean energy, AUKUS, China, and innovation will be among the topics discussed.
Mr. Albanese is also scheduled to visit China Nov. 4 to Nov. 7, where he will meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Chinese Premier Li Qiang.
