Australia pledges additional $100 million in military aid to Ukraine

Australia has pledged an additional A$100 million (US$65 million) in military assistance to Ukraine, reinforcing its support as Kyiv continues to defend itself against Russia's invasion.

The funding will be delivered through two A$50 million contributions over the next year to the NATO-backed Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL), which helps provide Ukraine with critical military equipment, including air defence systems and munitions, Caliber.Az reports, citing the Australian government statement.

The new commitment brings Australia's total support for Ukraine to more than A$1.8 billion, including over A$1.6 billion in military aid since the war began.

Australia is also participating in the Coalition of the Willing, a group of more than 35 countries coordinating support for Ukraine, and continues to train Ukrainian military personnel in Poland under Operation Kudu as part of the multinational Operation Legio.

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles said Australia would continue to back Ukraine, describing Russia's invasion as "unjustified and unprovoked" and stressing the importance of maintaining international support until a lasting peace is achieved.

“What happens in Ukraine matters here in the Indo-Pacific, which is why it is so important for Australia to stay the course and continue to stand with Ukraine until they find peace on their terms," he said.

By Sabina Mammadli