Australia 'open to consideration' of sending troops to Ukraine
What's the story
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said his government is "open to consideration" of sending troops to Ukraine as part of a multinational peacekeeping force.
The announcement comes as European nations, led by Britain and France, work on a peace plan for Ukraine.
The US has also temporarily halted military aid to Ukraine, with officials saying the pause is meant to review the aid's role in promoting peace.
Aid details
Australia's aid contribution and stance on Ukraine
Speaking at a press conference in Sydney, Albanese reiterated Australia's support for Ukraine, emphasizing the nation's fight for sovereignty against Russia's continued aggression.
He revealed that Australia has already contributed $1.5 billion in aid, including $1.3 billion for military assistance.
Although there has been no formal request for Australian troops yet, Albanese said that any such proposal would be given due consideration.
Peacekeeping role
Australia's commitment to peacekeeping and international law
Albanese emphasized Australia's historical participation in peacekeeping missions and its commitment to international law.
He said, "We want to see peace in Ukraine, but we want to make sure the illegal, immoral actions of Russia are not rewarded."
However, he added that there is no specific proposal or request for Australian troop deployment at this time.
Coalition proposal
UK proposes 'coalition of the willing' for Ukraine peacekeeping
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has suggested a "coalition of the willing" of 30,000 European peacekeeping troops if a ceasefire is reached between Russia and Ukraine.
Starmer said the UK was ready to contribute both ground and air forces and urged like-minded countries around the world to join.
Meanwhile, Australia's ambassador to the US, Kevin Rudd, reiterated the strong Australia-US alliance during a panel discussion in Washington DC.
Troop deployment
Opposition leader dismisses idea of sending Australian troops
Despite Albanese's remarks being Australia's most assertive stance yet on possible troop deployment, opposition leader Peter Dutton has ruled out sending Australian troops to Ukraine.
This comes after a government spokesperson said that the "deployment of Australian troops to support peacekeeping forces in Ukraine is not under consideration at this time."
Defense Industry Minister Pat Conroy added, "We're not envisaging that sort of commitment."