James Baillieu recently visited Ukraine, where he witnessed the devastating aftermath of the Russian invasion that began in February 2022. He described the smell of incinerated bodies in destroyed armoured personnel carriers and burnt-out cars along roadsides. Despite the ongoing conflict, most of Ukraine has returned to a more normal life, with missile and drone attacks mainly confined to the war front. Baillieu has been actively fundraising for soldiers and their families, sponsoring a van that runs supplies to the front and providing prosthetics for soldiers injured from mine blasts.
Baillieu strongly condemned the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, calling it an abomination against Western values and human dignity. He believes that Ukraine, while not a perfect society, is striving to improve itself and is deserving of support. However, as a private citizen, Baillieu acknowledged that his trip to a war-torn country might face criticism, especially since the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises against travel to Ukraine due to the volatile environment and conflict. Defence Minister Richard Marles also visited Ukraine in April, announcing Australia’s $100 million military aid package which includes funding to support drones.
Australia has provided over $1 billion in military and humanitarian aid since the war began, including a $50 million grant in February. Baillieu expressed disappointment in the latest government aid package to Ukraine, describing it as a “trivial amount” and calling for more substantial support. Despite Australia’s unwavering support for Ukraine, the country has not reopened its embassy in Ukraine, unlike more than 60 other nations. Baillieu criticized the government for keeping Australian diplomats, including ambassador Paul Lehmann, in the Polish capital of Warsaw, calling it a national disgrace and a snub to the importance of Ukraine.
Baillieu emphasized the geopolitical significance of the war in Ukraine, stating that if Russian President Vladimir Putin succeeds in Ukraine, it could destabilize the whole of Europe. He stressed the importance of supporting a rules-based order and urged Australians to donate to Ukraine through organizations like the Red Cross and Caritas Australia. While acknowledging the importance of the war in Gaza, Baillieu highlighted the gravity of the situation in Ukraine and called on Australia to do more to support the country. He believes that Australia’s limited defense force reinforces the need for a rules-based international order to protect the country and its interests.
