The launch of a full-scale invasion on Ukraine by Russia started at 5am Kyiv time this morning.
The Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO) condemns this action, which breaches all international conventions.
Stefan Romaniw, co-Chair of the AFUO, said upon news of the first missiles striking numerous cities, including Kyiv, Odessa, Mariupol and Kharkiv, that this is a totally unprovoked attack upon a peaceful nation.
“The AFUO calls on the Australian Government and the global democratic community to immediately escalate sanctions, provide humanitarian aid, and provide military support, including defensive weapons, military equipment and medical supplies,” said Mr Romaniw.
“This is a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, and Putin’s claim that this is a special military operation is more of his false rhetoric and needs to be called out for what it is – invasion and war.”
“Putin can be given no more benefit of the doubt – he wants to dismember Ukraine and destroy its sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. Ukrainians are ready to fight and resist this attack – we have spoken to our countrymen and women and they will not back down,” said Mr Romaniw.
Media inquiries: Mr Stefan Romaniw 0419 531 255
