UK says Australia ‘considering’ joining group to protect Ukraine peace

Britain’s PM has revealed what Anthony Albanese told him on a Saturday phone call about his plan for Australia’s potential involvement in protecting Ukraine from Russia.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese meets with Ukraine President Zelensky in July 4, 2022. Picture: X @AlboMP

Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is considering joining a group of countries prepared to protect an eventual ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war, according to the UK’s prime minister.

Britain and France have been leading efforts to form the so-called “coalition of the willing”, with the US’ long-term commitment to Europe’s security now in doubt under President Donald Trump.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer “spoke to the Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese this morning,” the UK leader’s office said on Saturday.

“He welcomed Prime Minister Albanese’s commitment to consider contributing to a Coalition of the Willing for Ukraine and looked forward to the Chiefs of Defence meeting in Paris on Tuesday.”

European countries have been rushing to boost support for Ukraine as Mr Trump pursues direct talks with Russian leader Vladimir Putin to end Moscow’s three-year-long invasion of Ukraine.

Australian Prime Minsiter Anthony Albanese meets with Ukraine President Zelensky on July 4, 2022. Picture: X @AlboMP

Mr Albanese speaks during a media conference at Parliament House in Canberra on October 14, 2023. Picture: AFP

Several European states have said they would be willing to deploy troops to Ukraine as a “security guarantee”.

Key details about the “coalition of the willing” have not been specified, but the grouping was mentioned by Mr Starmer during a summit of European leaders in London last Sunday aimed at guaranteeing “lasting peace” in Ukraine.

British officials have held talks with around 20 countries interested in being part of the group, a UK official said on Thursday.

The official refused to name the nations but said they were “largely European and Commonwealth partners”.

Earlier this week, Mr Albanese told journalists that Australia was “ready to assist” Ukraine.

“There’s discussion at the moment about potential peacekeeping,” he said. “From my government’s perspective, we’re open to consideration of any proposals going forward.”