As Ukraine remains open to the deployment of international peacekeeping forces, global discussions on security guarantees for the war-torn country continue to evolve.
However, while European nations explore potential deployments, the United States has firmly ruled out sending its own troops, leaving room for other allies — such as Australia — to step into a more active role.
Albanese confirmed that his country is engaged in discussions regarding the potential deployment of peacekeepers to Ukraine.
"My government is now participating in discussions about a potential peacekeeping mission in Ukraine and is open to considering any future proposals," he said.
The Prime Minister highlighted that Australia has already provided Ukraine with $1.4 billion in direct military aid and continues to play a crucial role in supporting Ukraine.
"We want to see peace in Ukraine and ensure that Russia’s illegal and immoral aggression is not repeated," he stressed.
Albanese further noted that if Australia were to receive a formal request for peacekeepers, his government will carefully consider it.
Importantly, he clarified that Australia's decision on deploying peacekeepers will not be influenced by the stance of the U.S. administration.
Growing global peacekeeping efforts in Ukraine
On Feb. 24, French President Emmanuel Macron, during a visit to Washington, said that France and the United Kingdom had developed a security guarantee plan for Ukraine, which could include the deployment of European military forces.
According to Macron, foreign troops would not necessarily be stationed on the front lines, but would instead serve as security guarantees.
Earlier, The Wall Street Journal reported that the governments of the U.K. and France were considering deploying up to 30,000 military personnel in Ukraine, with U.S. backing.