Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asked Australian lawmakers on Thursday for armored vehicles and tougher sanctions on Russia to help defend themselves in the Russian war in Ukraine.
Zelensky has been appealing to the leaders of many countries for additional help, including asking for weapons and sanctions. His pleas have come in the form of video messages tailored to each country.
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“We need more sanctions against Russia, powerful sanctions until they stop blackmailing other countries with their nuclear missiles,” Zelensky said. “You have very good armed personnel vehicles, Bushmasters, that could help Ukraine substantially, and other pieces of equipment.”
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Zelensky warned that if Russia was not stopped, it would embolden other countries to attack their neighbors, such as China attacking Taiwan.
“The most terrible thing is that if we don’t stop Russia now, if we don’t hold Russia accountable, then some other countries of the world who are looking forward to similar wars against their neighbors will decide that such things are possible for them as well,” Zelensky said.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison told Zelensky earlier Thursday that Australia would provide more military assistance, including tactical decoys, unmanned aerial and ground systems, rations, and medical supplies. Australia has already provided Ukraine with $68 million in military assistance, $49 million in humanitarian help, and 77,200 tons of coal.
“You have our prayers, but you also have our weapons, our humanitarian aid, our sanctions against those who seek to deny your freedom, and you even have our coal,” Morrison told Zelensky.
The Australian government additionally announced another round of tariffs on all imports from Russia and Belarus, this time increasing the tariffs by 35%, which will go into effect on April 25. Oil and energy imports from Russia will also be banned starting April 25, along with exports of aluminum ore.
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Zelensky asked Congress for help earlier this month in a similar address, including asking Congress to establish a no-fly zone over Ukraine. However, Congress has avoided sending troops to fight against Russia or establishing a no-fly zone. Instead, Congress has opted for heavier sanctions, offering military weapons, and providing humanitarian relief.
