Australia will extend and expand its commitment to the training of recruits from the Armed Forces of Ukraine as part of Operation Kudu, throughout 2024.
Since January, Australian soldiers have helped to train more than 1,200 recruits as part of the UK-led and based multinational training mission to support Ukraine’s national defence following Russia’s illegal and immoral invasion.
The most recent rotation of approximately 70 Australian Defence Force (ADF) instructors for 2023 this week returned to Darwin from the United Kingdom.
Over the next 12 months, the number of deployed ADF members will increase to 90 personnel, per rotation, with Australia’s role expanded to include a junior leadership training program, focusing on areas such as foundation warfighting skills including urban and trench warfare, combat first aid, explosive hazard awareness and marksmanship.
More than 30,000 Ukrainians have trained to become soldiers since June 2022 as part of the wider UK-led and based training program supported by personnel from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Lithuania, the Netherlands and, most recently, Romania.
This ongoing contribution is part of the Albanese Government’s steadfast support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Australia has committed approximately $910 million in overall assistance to Ukraine including $730 million in military support.
Acting Prime Minister, the Hon. Richard Marles MP said:
“Our ADF personnel are providing critical skills to Ukrainian recruits as part of Operation Kudu to support Ukraine to defend against Russia’s ongoing invasion.
“We are proud to expand Australia’s support for Operation Kudu, a mission that cements international solidarity for Ukraine.
“Our growing commitment to the multinational training mission affirms our pledge to provide meaningful and relevant support to the government and people of Ukraine.”
Foreign Minister, Senator the Hon. Penny Wong said:
“Almost two years since Russia launched its illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Australia remains steadfast in our commitment to shaping a world in which no country dominates, and no country is dominated.
“Training members of Ukraine’s Armed forces is an important way that Australia is empowering Ukraine to end the war on its own terms.
“Australia is proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with the brave Ukrainians who are defending their people, their territory, and their sovereignty.”