Over the weekend and today, 24 February 2025, Ukrainian-Australian community members and supporters have stood as one, marking three years since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and more than a decade of Russian aggression against Ukraine.
During this time, Australia has continued to be a strong advocate for democratic values, human rights, and Ukraine’s independence, with elected representatives from state and federal parliaments providing principled and consistent statements of support.
We welcome this morning’s announcement from Prime Minister Albanese, Defence Minister Richard Marles, and Foreign Minister Penny Wong of 149 additional sanctions against Russian individuals and entities. These sanctions, now totalling more than 1400, reflect the brutality and lawlessness of Russia’s invasion.
At a press conference this morning, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Australia, thanked Australia for the support and called for greater accountability for Putin’s war crimes, including the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, and more than 150,000 documented war crimes over the last three years.
Also at the press conference, Kateryna Argyrou, AFUO Co-Chair, said the lack of “moral leadership in other parts of the world presents an opportunity for Australia to show courage” and #StandWithUkraine.
Now, more than ever, Australia must speak out against Russian aggression, demand justice and ensure Ukraine has a seat at the table in any peace discussions.
For now, we stand in solidarity with our brave and resilient families and friends in Ukraine, as well as those we have lost due to Russia’s war.
#StandWithUkraine #StandForJustPeace #AFUO
