Ukrainian Greens criticize Australian Greens leader over military aid stance

The Green Party of Ukraine has expressed “deep disappointment” regarding the stance of the Australian Greens leader, David Shoebridge, who opposes providing military aid to Ukraine. In a statement from Kyiv, the Ukrainian Greens described the position as “detached from reality” and warned that “dogmatic pacifism kills,” arguing that refusing defensive weapons benefits Vladimir Putin.

Shoebridge, who recently assumed leadership of the Australian Greens, maintained that the party is committed to peace and non-violence. He stated that the party would only support military aid if it were backed by the United Nations Security Council, though critics noted that Russia holds veto power in the council.

Ukrainian Ambassador to Australia Vasyl Myroshnychenko held a “frank and forthright” meeting with Shoebridge on Friday but emerged unsatisfied with the discussion. While the Ukrainian Greens criticized Shoebridge, they expressed support for Australian Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young for her stance in favor of military aid.