The Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO) has welcomed the Australian Government’s announcement of an additional $110 million assistance package for Ukraine to assist it to defend itself from Russia’s brutal and genocidal invasion.
“We are grateful that the Australian Government has provided military vehicles and ammunition to Ukraine. As the Ukrainian counter-offensive presses on, any extra military assistance is of direct benefit to the front line and will help save lives,’ said AFUO Co-Chairs, Kateryna Argyrou and Stefan Romaniw OAM.
“We see this as part of an ongoing commitment of military aid from Australia, given the Prime Minister’s strong support for Ukraine and resolve to help Ukraine achieve victory.
“The AFUO expects that more military aid will be provided in the short term.
“It is only through steady, consistent and timely delivery of military aid, with the backing of our partners in freedom and democracy, that Ukraine can achieve the ultimate goal of peace.
“We are also thankful for the $10 million to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. The recent Russian attacks on the Kakhovka Dam, and smaller dams such as Mokri Yaly in Luhansk, have created widespread flooding and devastation, severely compromising access to clean water, shelter and sanitation.
“We know from talking to our family and friends in Ukraine that the invasion has caused much suffering – the pain is palpable. Families continue to lose their brave husbands and sons on the battlefield, millions have lost their homes and livelihoods, and children are still forced to study and live their lives in underground bunkers.
“We are grateful for the overwhelming support we have received from everyday Australians. But we know that more support is needed to reclaim Ukraine’s territory, achieve peace and restore the international rules-based order.
“The Ukrainian community will continue to be in regular dialogue with the Australian Government to share stories from the ground in Ukraine and will maintain a strong call for continued and sustained military aid from Australia,” they added.
