Australia, 17 October 2024 (TDI): Richard Marles (Minister for Defense Australia), announced the Australian government’s aim to gift 49 Abrams tanks to Ukraine as well as other essential defense assistance in the midst of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
He declared this in an interview with the local channel ‘sunrise’ that Australia is supporting Ukraine in their fight against the Russian invasion.
He expressed his optimism that the 49 Abrams tanks supplied by Australia to Ukraine’s armed forces would make a substantial difference on the battlefield.
Australia continues to stand with Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s invasion. Today, we announced the gifting of 49 Abrams tanks to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which will make an enormous difference on the battlefield. pic.twitter.com/vxKjfLntb1
— Richard Marles (@RichardMarlesMP) October 17, 2024
Australia is continuing its tradition of support for Ukraine, which began with the Crimean crisis in 2014.
Australia has started a number of programs to assist Ukraine, including defense assistance, humanitarian aid, assistance for internally displaced persons, and promoting Ukraine’s profile in international forums such as the United Nations (UNO) and the Organization for European Security and Cooperation (OSCE).
Read More: Australia to provide Abrams tanks to Ukraine | Defence Ministers
Exchange of good will via X account:
In response to Australia’s recent declaration, Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, through his X account thanked the Australian government for its announcement of $170 million worth crucial defense assistance to Ukraine.
He also praised Australia for its daring choice to send Abrams tanks to Ukraine to defend against Russian aggression.
Zelenskyy further went on to say that Ukraine cherishes their relationship and Australia’s efforts to establish just peace in Ukraine, restore order and stability in Europe, and safeguard the rule-based international order.
He also stated that Australia remains a trusted partner in the fight for freedom, democracy, human life, and global security.
I thank @AlboMP and the people of Australia for today’s announcement of essential defence assistance for Ukraine totaling $170,6 million.
I am especially grateful for Australia’s brave decision to provide 49 M1A1 Abrams tanks for our defense against Russian aggression.
We…
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) October 16, 2024
Andrii Sybiha, Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, also posted to ‘X’ to express his gratitude and acknowledge Australia for its defense assistance at this critical time.
We welcome Australia’s decision to provide 49 M1A1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine. Grateful to the Australian leadership including @RichardMarlesMP and @SenatorWong. Australia’s support helps to save lives, secure a just peace for Ukraine, and restore rules-based international order.
— Andrii Sybiha 🇺🇦 (@andrii_sybiha) October 17, 2024
Australia’s defense support was praised by Ukraine’s defense minister, Rustem Umerov as well.
Also Read: Russia-Ukraine War, Australia to Sanction Russia
On the top, he held talks to discuss possible investment prospects in defense manufacture with Pat Conroy, Australia’s Minister for Defense Industry and Capability Delivery.
🇦🇺 🇺🇦 I held meaningful talks with Australia’s Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, @PatConroy1.
I expressed my gratitude to my 🇦🇺 colleague for supporting the Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom, particularly for the announced delivery of 49 M1A1… pic.twitter.com/MN8m4ByEcc
— Rustem Umerov (@rustem_umerov) October 19, 2024
