Volodymyr Zelensky lauds Aussie Bushmaster
The Ukrainian President has lauded the performance of Australian-donated Bushmaster vehicles in its war against Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed Australia is working on a “significant package” of fresh military support for his country, as he lauded the performance of Australian-donated Bushmaster vehicles in its war against Russia.
Mr Zelensky thanked Australians in an online address to the Lowy Institute, saying Ukrainians were grateful for Australian weapons and vehicles, and the “very meaningful defence co-operation” between the countries. He said the Bushmaster protected mobility vehicles had performed “masterfully in real combat operations”.
“There is also a significant package that Australia has been preparing. This process is ongoing as we speak,” he said.
Australia was negotiating with other countries to put together a joint military aid package, but he could not reveal details of the support.
“And the more weapons and ammunition we receive – artillery, drones, anti-aircraft defence, anti-tank, anti-ship weapons – the more Russia would feel the responsibility for violating international law,” Mr Zelensky said.
He also urged Australia to keep up the pressure on Russia in the form of fresh sanctions so Russia “does not have time to adapt, does not have time to find ways to circumvent them”.
Australia has supplied 40 of a promised 60 Bushmasters, six M777 howitzers and is part-way through shipping 28 Vietnam-era M113 armoured vehicles.
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