500 days since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, the AFUO has launched #Utes4Ukraine to purchase used utes and trucks to be transported to Ukraine, to assist Ukrainian soldiers on the frontline with medical evacuation, mobility of troops and effective logistics.
Announced at rallies in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Hobart and Canberra commemorating the sombre 500 day milestone on the weekend of 8-9 July, the initiative arose from a letter written by the Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, General Valerii Zaluzhnyy, to the AFUO Co-Chair, Ms Kateryna Argyrou, a month ago which asked the Australian-Ukrainian community and supporters of Ukraine to purchase used utes and trucks and transport them to Ukraine.
“It was an honour to receive a letter from one of the most revered Generals in Ukraine – and learn that he appreciated the Australian community’s contributions and effort to support the brave servicemen and servicewomen on the frontline,” said Ms Argyrou.
“General Zaluzhnyy asked our community to spearhead a new campaign to provide critical help for Ukrainian soldiers.
“We will do everything possible to make the General’s request a reality,” she said.
Speaking at the Melbourne rally, Mr Stefan Romaniw OAM, AFUO Co-Chair, said “On this 500 day milestone, we also call on the Government to take a strong package to NATO to reinforce Australia’s support for Ukraine, and to show that Australia continues to be an active and valued partner in the battle to defeat Russian aggression and defend our shared values.
“Community-led initiatives are important and will make a difference in Ukraine. But military aid provided at the Government level is also critical for Ukraine’s counter-offensive. We hope the PM is able to deliver at Vilnius,’ he said.
The Melbourne rally was addressed by Bill Shorten, Minister for the National Disability Scheme and Government Services, Dan Tehan, Shadow Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Michael Galea, South-Eastern Metropolitan Victorian Legislative Council and Stefan Romaniw OAM, AFUO Co-Chair. Representatives from many ethnic communities were present.
Guest speakers included Hanna Andruyk, visiting from Kyiv, talking about the effect of missile attacks, deprivation and war on families in Ukraine, and 8 year old Liza Solovy, a displaced Ukrainian who was recently elected class captain in her Grade 2 year at Sacred Heart, Kew.
Click for information about AFUO’s Defend Ukraine Appeal and the #Utes4Ukraine initiative
