Australia announced its largest ever military aid package for Ukraine, committing $250 million to bolster the war-torn nation's defense against Russia.

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles unveiled the pledge during the NATO summit in Washington D.C., highlighting Australia's unwavering support for Ukraine.

The summit, overshadowed by American political turmoil, primarily centered on strengthening support for Ukraine. However, concerns about China's growing influence in the Asia-Pacific region also took center stage. Australia, along with other regional partners, sent delegations to solidify ties with NATO in response to these anxieties.

The summit declaration by NATO leaders denounced China as a "decisive enabler" of Russia's invasion. The alliance urged China to cease supplying weapons components and other forms of military and political assistance to Russia. The declaration emphasized the negative impact such actions have on China's global image.

Marles met with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy alongside leaders from the US, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea. He stressed that the events in Eastern Europe hold significant importance for the Asia-Pacific due to China's recent alliance with Russia.

Despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, NATO allies pledged unwavering commitment to the country. They agreed to provide at least €40 billion ($64 billion) in military support over the next year.

Australia's military package includes guided missiles, air defense systems, anti-tank weaponry, ammunition, and essential supplies. This contribution brings Australia's total support for Ukraine to $1.3 billion, with $1.1 billion specifically allocated to the military. The government assured this will not be the final aid package and they will stand with Ukraine for the long haul.

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has been actively training Ukrainian recruits in the UK through Operation Kudu. They will now become an operational partner in NATO's new training and security initiative for Ukraine. A contingent of Australian personnel stationed in Europe will be deployed to this 700-strong mission.

The summit's location in Washington proved to be a point of contention. Domestic debates surrounding President Biden's fitness for re-election intensified, with concerns arising even within his own party. Additionally, anxieties about a potential Trump victory loom large, as he has hinted at reducing or even eliminating US support for Ukraine and NATO. However, Trump recently clarified that he would not pull the US out of the alliance, but emphasized the need for member states to fulfill their financial obligations. (ILKHA)