Following widespread concern across the Ukrainian-Australian community over media reports that the Australian Greens oppose military aid to Ukraine, the AFUO organised a meeting with Greens leader Senator David Shoebridge to discuss the party’s position directly.
AFUO Chair Kateryna Argyrou, Ukrainian Council of NSW – ОУГ НПВ President Andrew Mencinsky and Ukrainian Community of Queensland Inc. President Peter Bongiorni attended the meeting, which provided an opportunity for a frank and constructive exchange about the Greens’ policy, its impact on the Ukrainian community, and how Australia can best support Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Senator Shoebridge reaffirmed the Greens’ support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and its resistance against Russia’s illegal invasion, as well as humanitarian assistance, support for displaced Ukrainians in Australia, and stronger sanctions against Russia. He explained that the party’s longstanding policy opposes weapons transfers.
The AFUO acknowledged the Greens’ support, however, we directly urged Senator Shoebridge to reconsider the party’s opposition to military assistance for Ukraine. The discussion also explored whether the Greens’ position could accommodate other forms of defence assistance, including direct financial support to the Ukrainian Government.
The AFUO’s message was clear: Peace cannot be secured by asking the victim of aggression to endure it without the means to defend itself. It requires stopping the aggressor and ensuring Ukraine can protect its people and its future. Sanctions, humanitarian assistance and military support are complementary – not competing – measures. Ukraine needs all three.
We also called for urgent action to close loopholes allowing Russian-origin oil to enter Australia.
The AFUO welcomed this opportunity for dialogue, but we will continue to advocate for a change in policy. We urge Senator Shoebridge and the Greens to reconsider their opposition to military aid and ensure Ukraine receives all the practical support it needs to survive and win its fight for freedom.
#StandWithUkraine #AFUO #UkraineNeedsMilitaryAid #CloseTheSanctionsLoophole
