The Australian government plans to provide a total of A$105 million in military equipment and humanitarian aid to Ukraine following the invasion of Russia. Two-thirds of the money would go to “defence, lethal and non-lethal equipment,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Tuesday.
The head of government did not want to say exactly what weapons and other equipment was involved, so as not to give Russia additional information, as he emphasized. “But we’re talking regarding missiles and ammunition, we’re talking regarding helping Ukraine defend its country.” The material is to be delivered in cooperation with NATO. The sanctions that numerous countries around the world have imposed on Russia are having an effect, Morrison said. “Every day the resistance continues, every day we impose costs on the Russian government and everyone who supports them in their unlawful acts, makes it even more difficult for Russia to pursue its goals in Ukraine.”
However, the world community must expect an “even more violent reaction from Russia”. “Anyone who thinks that the Russian government will just sit there, I don’t think I understand President Putin’s intentions and outrageous goals,” he warned.
Shortly following the Russian attack, Australia imposed far-reaching sanctions on many members of the Russian parliament. This was also extended to Belarus, a close friend of Russia.