The prime minister has reaffirmed Australia’s “unequivocal” support for Ukraine as the United States wavers in its commitment to the war-torn country.
Anthony Albanese fielded repeated questions on Saturday about a fiery clash in the White House between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The pair were expected to sign a critical minerals deal together, but Mr Zelenskyy left abruptly after a verbal spat played out in front of cameras in the Oval Office.
Mr Trump told Mr Zelenskyy he should be “more thankful” for US support and that he was “gambling with World War III”.
Asked about the meeting, Mr Albanese declined to weigh in on the approach taken by Mr Trump.
“I am responsible for Australia’s foreign policy, and Australia’s foreign policy is determined by Australia,” he said.
“And we stand unequivocally with Ukraine in their struggle because we regard that as a struggle for the upholding of international law.”
Mr Albanese also pointed to his own meetings with Mr Zelenskyy in the past, and argued Ukraine’s cause was bigger than just that of a single nation.
“We will continue to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes,”
he said.
“Because this is the struggle of a democratic nation versus an authoritarian regime led by [Russian President] Vladimir Putin who clearly has imperialistic designs not just on Ukraine but throughout that region.”
Questioned on whether the Coalition would continue to support Ukraine regardless of any change in stance from the US, Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor said it would.
“We’re fully supportive of the Ukraine at this time,” he said.
“This was an illegal invasion by Russia. That is our position. That will continue to be our position.“
PM’s comments echo those from European leaders
The prime minister’s statements are broadly in line with those made by many European leaders, who have often reiterated support for Ukraine without mentioning Mr Trump.
French President Emmanuel Macron argued for the importance of ongoing assistance.
“We were right to help Ukraine and sanction Russia three years ago — and to keep doing so,” he said.
“By “we”, I mean the Americans, the Europeans, the Canadians, the Japanese, and many others. Thank you to all who have helped and continue to do so.”
Germany’s likely next chancellor, Friedrich Merz, said Germany would continue to stand with Ukraine, and added that “we must never confuse aggressor and victim in this terrible war”.
Others were more direct in their support for Mr Zelenskyy immediately following the very public clash with Mr Trump.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Mr Zelenskyy’s “dignity”.
“Your dignity honours the bravery of the Ukrainian people,” she said.
“Be strong, be brave, be fearless. You are never alone, dear President [Zelenskyy].”
