Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha hosted his Australian counterpart Penny Wong in Kyiv, marking the first bilateral visit of an Australian foreign minister to Ukraine in a decade. The two diplomats held in-depth discussions focusing on Australia's additional support for Ukraine.
Key outcomes of the meeting included the decision to fully restore the operations of the Australian Embassy in Ukraine. Sybiha expressed confidence that this step would strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
Minister Sybiha extended heartfelt gratitude to Australia for its military assistance, highlighting the recent delivery of 49 Abrams tanks and 14 patrol boats. He noted that Australia's total aid to Ukraine has exceeded $1 billion, with $880 million allocated for military support.
During the talks, Sybiha detailed Ukraine's immediate military needs and requested further support, including Australian Bushmaster vehicles and additional weaponry. He also proposed considering Ukraine’s requirements when decommissioning military equipment currently in service with the Australian Defence Forces.
The two ministers addressed concerns over the deepening ties between Russia and North Korea.
"Supporting Ukraine is in Australia’s direct interest, as it bolsters stability not only in Europe but also in the Indo-Pacific region. We must intensify pressure on the aggressor state and increase the cost of war for the Kremlin," Sybiha emphasized.
The Ukrainian foreign minister invited Australia to participate in the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Italy next year, welcoming Australian involvement in rebuilding efforts.
Sybiha also commended Australia for its decision to allocate €50 million to the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and contribute $6.39 million to Ukraine's Energy Support Fund. He expressed deep appreciation to every Australian supporting Ukraine's fight for freedom and justice.
