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Australian politicians have committed their support to the people of Ukraine during a memorial service on the third anniversary of the Russian invasion.
Labor and Liberal politicians attended the service at the Ukrainian Orthodox Church on February 24, following Australia's announcement to impose further targeted financial sanctions and travel bans on 70 persons, and targeted financial sanctions on 79 entities. Both Liberal and Labor Party leaders have reportedly announced their intentions to visit Ukraine, if they win the coming Federal Election this year.
The service was also attended by Ukraine's Ambassador to Australia and New Zealand Vasyl Myroshnychenko and Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations co-chair Kateryna Argyrou.
February 24, 2025 marks the third year of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
"For three years, Ukraine has bravely resisted Russia’s illegal and immoral war of aggression. Australia mourns the loss of life of Ukraine’s citizens and defenders, and the generational toll of Russia’s brutality. Australia continues to stand with Ukraine," according to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
"We have committed over $1.5 billion to help Ukraine defend itself, including more than $1.3 billion in military support through vital equipment for the battlefield and the training of Ukrainian forces.
"Australia has been clear since day one that Russia, and those enabling its illegal invasion, will face consequences. The new sanctions target individuals propping up Russia’s illegal administrations in eastern Ukraine and Crimea, including so-called “ministers”, judges and prosecutors, and individuals responsible for conflict-related sexual violence and the forced deportation of Ukrainian children.
"The sanctions also target persons and entities involved in deepening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, including the deployment of North Korean troops to the battlefield.
"Deepening Russia-North Korea military cooperation is a dangerous expansion of Russia’s war, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security.
"Targets in Russia’s defence, transport and finance sectors, and those spreading disinformation to undermine Ukraine and governments around the world, have also been sanctioned.
"Australia has now imposed a total of more than 1,400 sanctions in response to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The Government has taken decisive action to ensure Australians are not inadvertently fuelling Russia’s war economy.
"Today we have further tightened trade bans on Russia by prohibiting the supply of commercial drones and components, including the provision of related services. Once again, Australia calls on Russia to immediately end its war and adhere fully to its obligations under international law, including in relation to the protection of civilians and treatment of prisoners of war. Working with Ukraine and our partners, Australia supports a just and lasting peace for Ukraine."
