Australia to provide Ukraine with drones, imposes sanctions against Russians, Russian organizations, Patriarch Kirill

This is stated on the websites of Australian government departments and in the media.

According to a press release issued on February 24, the Australian Government will provide additional military assistance to Ukraine and impose new sanctions on Russia. 

“This is a most sombre occasion for the people of Ukraine. One year on from Russia's unprovoked, unjustified and unlawful full-scale invasion, the costs of Russia's aggression are incalculable. In the face of Russia's aggression, the Ukrainian people—led so resolutely by President Zelenskyy—have displayed extraordinary strength and courage. We continue to stand with Ukraine,” said Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Thus, Ukraine will receive additional drones from Australia. The Guardian journalists claimed that the equipment is not combat, but the drones, which cost USD 33 million, will help the Ukrainian Armed Forces monitor the movement of Russian troops during the war.”

The Australian government also revoked the right to enter and froze the assets of another 90 Russian individuals and 40 Russian organizations.

The list includes, in particular, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill, governors, members of the CEC, 5 deputy prime ministers, propagandist Alexei Dugin, and Channel One CEO Konstantin Ernst.

“Australia is imposing additional sanctions, targeting those in the Russian Government who are helping prolong this war, those financing this war, and those spreading mistruths to justify this war,” Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong says.

Among the sanctioned organizations are the following:

• Kalashnikov Concern, one of Russia's largest arms manufacturers

• Submarine developer Admiralty Shipyards

• Aviation company Tupolev

• Missile designer Makeyev Rocket Design Bureau,

• Infantry fighting vehicle producer Kurganmashzavod.

Australia and the G7 countries agreed to cap the price of Russian oil at USD 60 per barrel. The Australian government also imposed sanctions on 13 people and two organizations involved in human rights violations. Among them are the organizers of the attempted assassination of Navalny.

Later, France and Australia reached an agreement to jointly produce 155-mm shells for the Ukrainian Armed Forces to support the country in its war against Russia.