Avoid trouble’: Russia warns Australia against sending peacekeeping troops to Ukraine

Russia has issued a stern warning to Australia after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced he was considering sending peacekeeping troops to Ukraine.

Mr Albanese spoke to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the phone on the weekend, where he showed “commitment to consider contributing to a coalition of the willing for Ukraine”, according to a spokesman for the British leader.

The Labor leader confirmed the coalition of the willing had been discussed, and that it would be further spoken about at the Chiefs of Defence meeting in Paris on Tuesday.

Australia will send a senior representative to that meeting to discuss, going forward, both of our nations are very clear about our support for Ukraine and it of course is too early — you can’t have peacekeeping forces without having peace,” Mr Albanese said on Sunday.”I certainly have said, very clearly, publicly, repeatedly, that we would give consideration to participating in any peacekeeping mission in the Ukraine.”

Australia has been a strong supporter of Ukraine in the ongoing conflict with Russia. Here are some key points about Australia’s stance:-

Condemning Russia’s actions:

Australia has unequivocally condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, calling it “unprovoked, full-scale” and “illegal and immoral” ¹.-

Supporting Ukraine:

Australia has committed over AUD 1.5 billion in defence, economic, energy, and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine ¹.

Imposing sanctions:

Australia has imposed targeted financial sanctions and travel bans on over 1,400 individuals and entities supporting Russia’s invasion ¹

Providing military aid:

Australia has provided military assistance, including 49 M1A1 Abrams tanks, artillery, and ammunition, to support Ukraine’s defence ¹.

Diplomatic efforts:

Australia has been working with international partners to support Ukraine and hold Russia accountable, including through the United Nations and NATO ¹ ³.Overall, Australia has taken a strong stance against Russia’s actions in Ukraine and has been actively supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.