Albanese considers deploying peacekeepers to Ukraine amid US military aid pause

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed openness to deploying Australian peacekeeping troops to Ukraine, coinciding with a significant pause in US military aid under President Donald Trump, who seeks to push Ukraine towards a one-sided peace deal with Russia. Albanese reaffirmed Australia's commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst ongoing discussions regarding international peacekeeping efforts, emphasizing the importance of not rewarding Russian aggression. He noted Australia’s historical role in peacekeeping missions and highlighted the nation’s previous contributions of $1.5 billion in aid, primarily military assistance. Opposition leader Peter Dutton has criticized the idea of sending troops, advocating instead for continued military support and training for Ukrainian forces, while asserting that European nations should take the lead in their defense. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is promoting a 'coalition of the willing' among European nations to implement peacekeeping measures should a ceasefire agreement occur. Discussions surrounding the potential deployment of Australian troops are still in the early stages, with no final decisions made yet.