10 March 2022
As Ukraine continues to resist a brutal, destructive Russian invasion, the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO) has urged the Australian Government to support Ukraine’s request to join the European Union (EU).
The matter is likely to be discussed this week at the Summit of European Heads of States and Government. The summit will consider Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine, its consequences and how to strengthen European sovereignty, reduce dependencies, and design a new growth and investment model.
‘This summit could end up being a huge turning point if moves are made to accept Ukraine into the EU. We know the Russian Federation is lobbying heavily for this not to happen,’ said Mr Stefan Romaniw OAM, the Co-Chair of the AFUO, in a letter to the PM Scott Morrison and Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne.
‘However, everything possible to stop Russian aggression in Ukraine must be done. Acceptance into the EU may give Ukraine further protection.
‘While Australia is not part of the EU, Australia has strong relations with many European countries. We call on our Australian leaders to urgently contact their European counterparts and urge them to support the acceptance of Ukraine into the EU,’ he said.
Mr Romaniw also thanked the PM and Minister for Foreign Affairs for the support the Australian Government has and is giving Ukraine in the war started by Russia.
Media inquiries: Mr Stefan Romaniw 0419 531 255
