Russia Warns of 'Grave Consequences' Over Potential Australian Peacekeepers in Ukraine
Australia considers joining a UK-led coalition to enforce a peace deal in Ukraine, prompting sharp warnings from Russia against foreign troop deployments.
- Russia's embassy in Canberra issued a statement warning of 'grave consequences' if Australia sends troops to Ukraine as part of a proposed peacekeeping coalition.
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has left open the possibility of Australian involvement in a peacekeeping force but stated no formal request has been made yet.
- The peacekeeping proposal, led by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, envisions 30,000 troops from various nations to enforce a ceasefire if one is reached.
- Australian opposition leaders and experts have voiced concerns about deploying troops, arguing it is outside Australia's regional focus and poses significant risks.
- Australia has provided over $1.5 billion in aid to Ukraine since Russia's invasion in 2022 but has not committed to deploying military personnel on the ground.
The Sydney Morning Herald 
The Guardian 
Australian Broadcasting Corporation 