The AFUO has backed calls for the PM Anthony Albanese to attend the upcoming NATO summit, saying Australia can continue to play a meaningful role in protecting democracy and restoring peace by helping Ukraine to achieve victory and the rebuilding of its country after Russia’s brutal and illegal invasion.
Mr Stefan Romaniw OAM and Ms Kateryna Argyrou, AFUO Co-Chairs, said today “We hope the PM attends the NATO summit to show Australia’s unwavering support for Ukraine.
“Australia has been at the forefront of non-NATO countries who have provided humanitarian and military aid to Ukraine. That’s because Australians understand it is important to support the rule of law and a rules-based global system.
“Now is the time for countries like Australia to remain committed, and provide the steady, consistent and speedy delivery of military equipment needed to end the war.
“By cooperating and working closely with like-minded democracies and institutions, Australia can punch above its weight and show the world we stand up for what’s right.
“The war is continuing to take an enormous toll on the people of Ukraine. Russia has played every dirty trick in the book – indiscriminate bombing of towns and energy infrastructure, deporting 4 million people to Russia through ‘filtration’ camps, kidnapping 16,000 children for ‘re-education’, and as stated by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres “triggering the most massive violations of human rights we are living [through] today.”
“The PM visited Ukraine in July last year and saw the horrors of Irpin, Bucha and Hostomel. He described them as ‘devastating’. We know the PM understands what is at stake.
“By standing strong with NATO, Australia can send a message to Moscow that it and like-minded countries will not accept aggression and violence in the conduct of world affairs,” they added.
Image Source: SBS News
