Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga urged Australia on Wednesday to increase its military support to assist Ukraine’s armed forces in combating Russia’s advancing troops.
Sybiga made the request during a press conference with his Australian counterpart, Penny Wong, who was visiting Ukraine, which has been fighting Russia’s invasion for nearly three years.
Australia has already provided Ukraine with 120 Bushmaster armoured personnel carriers designed to protect against landmines and improvised explosive devices.
“The situation on the battlefield remains extremely difficult, and the need to reinforce our troops is urgent. That is why I have requested additional military support today, including Australia’s renowned Bushmasters and other weapons,” Sybiga stated.
Wong responded, “I have heard my friend’s requests for further assistance, and I will certainly take those requests back to Australia.”
Ukraine continues to face challenges on the front lines, fighting against better-equipped Russian forces now bolstered by North Korean soldiers.
Wong criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling him a “coward” for seeking cooperation with North Korea, which she said represented a new low.
She also announced that Australia would contribute an additional $66 million to the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to support Ukraine, along with $10 million for the country’s energy sector, which has been severely damaged by Russian attacks.
Furthermore, Wong revealed that the Australian embassy in Kyiv would reopen next month.