PM Albanese suggests Australia may send troops to Ukraine despite growing tensions and Trump’s aid freeze

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has suggested that Australia is open to contributing troops to a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine, despite his government initially downplaying the idea. This shift in stance comes as European leaders explore the possibility of forming a “coalition of the willing” to enforce a potential ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia.

The concept of a peacekeeping force remains highly controversial, particularly given Russia’s firm opposition to foreign troops on Ukrainian soil. Moscow has already warned that such deployments would be seen as direct Western involvement in the conflict, escalating tensions even further.

Albanese’s comments mark a notable departure from the government’s previous messaging. Just a day earlier, an official spokesperson stated that Australia had no plans to send troops to Ukraine. However, speaking on Tuesday, the prime minister left the door open, saying his government would consider any proposals.

He pointed to Australia’s long history of peacekeeping, referencing previous missions in Africa and Cyprus as examples of the country’s role in international stabilisation efforts. “Australia has historically played an important role in peacekeeping across the world,” he said.

Dutton Rejects the Idea, Echoing Trump’s Stance

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has dismissed the notion of sending Australian troops, arguing that Europe should take the lead instead. He insisted that while Australia should continue training Ukrainian forces, deploying personnel as peacekeepers would be a step too far.

“I don’t see a role for Australian boots on the ground in Ukraine,” Dutton said. “I think the Europeans have that task. What Donald Trump pointed out is that the Europeans need to do more in the defence of Europe—and that is a statement of the obvious.”

His comments closely align with Trump’s latest actions. Reports from US media suggest that the former president, following a heated exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has halted all military aid to Ukraine. The sudden suspension has sent shockwaves through Kyiv, raising concerns that Ukraine may struggle to sustain its defences against Russian aggression.

Ukraine Calls for More Support as US Pulls Back

Ukraine’s ambassador to Australia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, responded to the unfolding situation by urging global allies to increase their support. With the US shifting its stance, he argued that it was now up to the rest of the world to step in.

“Whether one likes it or not, America is changing its role in the world,” Myroshnychenko said. “It’s up to the world to step up in the name of democracy. Ukraine is doing that, and we are grateful for Australia’s increased willingness to do so.”

While his remarks appeared to welcome Albanese’s openness, they also underscored the urgent need for assistance in the wake of Trump’s decision. With the US withholding aid, Ukraine will likely depend more on European and allied nations to fill the gap.

The Risks of an Australian Deployment

The prospect of Australian troops entering Ukraine as peacekeepers remains uncertain, but the risks are undeniable. Peacekeeping missions are rarely without danger, and with the conflict between Russia and Ukraine showing no clear path to resolution, any deployment could place Australian forces in harm’s way.

Albanese’s willingness to consider the option signals a significant shift in Australia’s approach, but no formal request has been made. Whether his government will follow through on the idea or quietly step back remains to be seen.

For now, the debate continues as the situation in Ukraine grows more unpredictable by the day.