Deputy Ministers of Defence of Ukraine Oleksandr Balanutsa and Dmytro Klimenkov met with Australian Senator Simon Birmingham, Leader of the Opposition in the Australian Senate and Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs. The parties discussed Ukraine's military needs and prospects for expanding bilateral defence cooperation.

Oleksandr Balanutsa briefed his Australian colleague on the military necessities of Ukraine's Armed Forces and voiced expectations for ongoing fruitful cooperation both bilaterally and within the scope of international alliances. He stressed the significance of strategic partnership between our countries, especially in the context of global security challenges.

The Deputy Minister expressed gratitude for supporting the Ukrainian Armed Forces and invited Australia to participate in the Demining Coalition to support the Defence Forces. He also called on the Australian Government and the country’s defence companies to consider investing in Ukraine's military sector.  

“We are convinced that Australia can make a significant contribution to the victory of Ukraine against russian aggression, especially in defence, economy, training, and sharing expertise,” Oleksandr Balanutsa said.

He also emphasised the proposal to the Australian Government to sign a bilateral Security Agreement with Ukraine.

The meeting members also addressed the supply of weapons and equipment. According to the Ministry of Defence, the assistance provided by Australia had reached AU$ 1.3 billion by the end of August 2024, of which AU$ 1.1 billion was allocated for military support.

Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine Dmytro Klimenkov pointed out: “Ukraine expresses genuine thanks to Australia for its steadfast political, humanitarian, and military assistance. Australia remains the largest military contributor to Ukraine outside of NATO. This demonstrates Australia’s unwavering dedication to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with us in fighting for freedom and democracy.”

Ukraine is willing to explore various cooperation options to ensure the rapid implementation of new technologies and solutions that will strengthen our defence capabilities.

“We are ready to have an in-depth conversation with our Australian partners to collectively devise successful solutions in defence and security. Working together, we will be able to develop innovative approaches that will help strengthen the Armed Forces of Ukraine,” summarised Dmytro Klimenkov.