'We stand with Ukraine': PM speaks after Oval Office clash

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has commented on the heated conflict between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and former U.S. President Donald Trump. Albanese emphasized that the Australian government will continue to stand in solidarity with Ukraine, but he declined to comment specifically on the remarks made by Trump and JD Vance, emphasizing the importance of focusing on Australia's commitment to Ukraine.

Speaking to reporters, Albanese stated, "We stand with Ukraine." He pointed out that this land war in Europe has been ongoing for three years, and the Ukrainian people are fighting not only for their national sovereignty but also for the international rule of law. Australia will continue to support Ukraine, as it is a struggle between a democratic nation and an authoritarian regime led by Vladimir Putin, who clearly harbors imperial ambitions toward Ukraine and the broader region, underscoring the importance of upholding democratic values.

Albanese added that Australia certainly hopes to see peace in Ukraine, and the Ukrainian people are equally eager for peace. He believes that the quickest path to peace in Ukraine is for Russia to cease its illegal and immoral invasion, stop its attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, and end this aggression that has persisted for three years, highlighting the urgent need for de-escalation and a return to diplomatic solutions.

Prior to this, multiple world leaders pledged their support for Ukraine following a heated exchange in the Oval Office. President Trump reportedly delivered an unprecedented rebuke to President Zelenskyy, leading to a near real-time breakdown in relations between Washington and Kyiv. Trump at one point threatened to completely abandon support for Ukraine, and a scheduled press conference and signing ceremony for a U.S.-Ukraine minerals agreement were swiftly canceled after Trump demanded Zelenskyy leave the White House immediately, signaling a potential shift in international alliances.

Albanese stated that the Australian government will continue to defend Australia's national interests. He reiterated that Australia's position is to stand with Ukraine and condemn Russia for acting like a bully, attempting to invade and occupy the territory of another sovereign nation, Ukraine. Australia has a responsibility to uphold the international rule of law, which is precisely what the Ukrainian people are fighting for, reinforcing Australia's commitment to global stability and security.