Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese have discussed the need to strengthen sanctions against Russia, security guarantees and the fate of volunteer Oscar Jenkins, who was taken prisoner by Russia.
The head of the Ukrainian state said this in a post on social media platform X, Ukrinform reports.
“I spoke with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and thanked for Australia’s unwavering support for Ukraine and our people. It is crucial that our coalition in defense of international law remains truly global. We are also working to expedite the new defense aid package. We discussed strengthening sanctions against Russia for its war, and Australia is ready to take further steps. Ukraine’s priority remains reliable security guarantees, reinforcing our defense, and increasing pressure on Russia to end the war,” Zelensky said.
He noted that they also discussed future negotiations.
“We also addressed diplomatic efforts and appreciate Australia’s firm stance that all substantive negotiations on Ukraine must include Ukraine—this is the only way to achieve a just peace,” Zelensky said.
The Ukrainian president also stressed the need to establish all the circumstances surrounding the case of Australian citizen Oscar Jenkins, who fought for Ukraine and has been taken prisoner by Russia.
As reported by Ukrinform, at a joint briefing with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha in Kyiv in December 2024, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said that Australia would transfer EUR 50 million to the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to help Ukraine access a reconstruction loan and announced a USD 6.39 contribution to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund.
Photo credit: President’s Office
Source: Zelensky, Australian PM discuss strengthening sanctions against Russia, security guarantees
