Source: Press Office of the Hon. Scott Morrison MP, Prime Minister, Canberra
The Australian Government is providing further support for the people of Ukraine with the gifting of six M777 155mm lightweight towed howitzers and howitzer ammunition to the Government of Ukraine.
This support is being provided following a request by the United States and the Ukrainian Ambassador to Australia to provide heavy artillery weapons and ammunition to the Ukrainian Armed Forces as Russia steps up its offensive in the Donbas.
This additional military assistance will further support Ukraine in its response to Russia’s brutal, unrelenting and illegal invasion.
The $26.7 million in new support for Ukraine takes Australia’s total contribution to Defensive Military Assistance to Ukraine to over $225 million.
In addition, Australia is providing $65 million in humanitarian assistance, with a focus on protecting women, children, the elderly, including for food, shelter and emergency medical supplies. Australia is also providing at least 70,000 tonnes of thermal coal to power Ukraine’s resistance.
The Australian Government will continue to identify opportunities for further military assistance where it is able to provide a required capability to the Ukraine Armed Forces expeditiously.
The Australian Government reiterates our strongest support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and for the people of Ukraine.
Australia stands with the people of Ukraine, and again calls on Russia to cease its unprovoked, unjust and illegal invasion of Ukraine.
The Government will not disclose delivery arrangements at the direct request of Ukrainian officials and other partners.
