Anthony Albanese first Australian PM to visit war-torn Ukraine

Published

3 years ago

July 4, 2022

Anthony Albanese is the first Australian Prime Minister to visit war-torn Ukraine

Anthony Albanese has made history, becoming the first Australian Prime Minister to visit war-torn Ukraine.

Only months into the top job, the new Prime Minister traveled to three destroyed cities surrounding the capital of Kyiv and met with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky.

Albanese visited the city of Bucha, Irpin, and Hostomel, which were the first victims of Russia’s war.

Irpin has a population of approximately 70,000, Bucha 37,000, and Hostomel about 17, 000.

Russia chose to attack each of the towns, early in the war with many suggesting this was a tactic to encircle the capital.

Thousands of civilians have lost their lives in these regions since the war began in February.

Albanese was surrounded by heavy security during his visit, with the Prime Minister witnessing first-hand the ‘devastating’ atrocities carried out by Russia.

Although Russia has continued to deny the attacks, Albanese says they’re “a war crime”.

“Clearly, civilian areas have been targeted by the Russian forces as part of this illegal and amoral war.
It’s devastating. These are homes and these are livelihoods and indeed lives that have been lost here in this town. And the fact that you had such a significant force – you can see the use of tanks, missiles, heavy artillery being used in a civilian area – it’s just devastating.”
anthony albanese

During a briefing with Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky, the new Prime Minister says Australia will provide $100 million in military and technical might.

The package will include 14 armoured personnel carriers, 20 more Bushmaster vehicles, and drones.

Albanese also confirmed Australia will move to ban Russian gold imports.

He confirmed his country will support Ukraine for “as long as it takes” to win the war.

So far, Australia has given Ukraine $285 million in military aid and $65 million in humanitarian relief.

“We understand that the defence of Ukraine is about defending the rules-based international order and the implications for its disruption would have ramifications throughout the world.
Because you are fighting for the international rule of law, you are fighting for international rules in which we conduct our activity to be respected and to occur in an orderly way.”
anthony albanese

Zelensky welcomed Albanese’s visit and show of support and compassion.

“I am grateful for [Australia’s] decision to join the process. It is important for us, it is important for the whole world.”
Volodymyr zelensky

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Multiple Australia-Bali flights cancelled as Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupts again, disrupting travel for the second time in two months.

In Short:
International flights between Australia and Bali have been cancelled again due to the recent eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki in Indonesia. This marks the second eruption in two months.

Multiple return international flights between Australia and Bali have faced cancellations following the recent eruption of Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano. It marks the second time in as many months that volcanic activity has disrupted travel plans for passengers heading to the popular tourist destination.

Observations from drones showed lava filling the crater, indicating deep movement of magma that set off volcanic earthquakes.

“An eruption of that size certainly carries a higher potential for danger, including its impact on aviation,” Mr Wafid told The Associated Press.

“We shall re-evaluate to enlarge its danger zone that must be cleared of villagers and tourist activities.”

Flight delays

“Some Virgin Australia Bali services have been cancelled following the eruption of Mount Lewotobi earlier today,” a Virgin Australia spokesperson said.

“The safety of our guests and crew is our highest priority and our team of expert meteorologists are closely monitoring the situation and ash cloud activity.

“We regret the impact of this on guests’ travel plans and encourage guests travelling to or from Bali to closely monitor their flight status via the Virgin Australia website or app.”

Qantas flights QF43 from Sydney and QF45 from Melbourne to Denpasar, Bali have been delayed.

Bali, known for its stunning landscapes and cultural attractions, relies heavily on international tourism, particularly from Australia. With flight cancellations, many are left scrambling to adjust their itineraries or seek alternative destinations. The situation has put a spotlight on the challenges that natural events can pose to the tourism sector.

Authorities in Indonesia are working to assess the situation and manage the impact of the volcano’s activity. Updates on travel advisories and safety measures are expected to be communicated to the public as conditions evolve.