Australians to train ‘Ukrainian mates’ for first time in new military package | KnottMatthew
Australian military personnel will train Ukrainian troops for the first time as part of a new $87-million military assistance package to help the country in its war against Russia.
A contingent of up to 70 Australian Defence Force personnel will deploy to the United Kingdom in January to join Operation Interflex, a multinational effort to train Ukrainian soldiers.“Australia has been unequivocal in its bipartisan support for Ukraine and its condemnation of [Russian] President [Vladimir] Putin,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.“This is not just about Ukraine’s sovereignty; the brave people of Ukraine are defending international law, rules and norms.
Ukrainian forces have been advancing rapidly towards the southern provincial capital of Kherson, raising expectations they will recapture the city within days and deliver Putin another embarrassing defeat.Myroshnychenko had made clear that extra military support in the form of troop carriers and ammunition was Ukraine’s priority, not training, but welcomed the UK training initiative.