The Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO) is calling on the Australian government to transfer M1A1 Abrams tanks, planned to be withdrawn from service, to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. As part of the campaign, Major Andrii Berezovskyi, a Ukrainian veteran, has appealed to Australian officials to provide these vehicles, which could play a “crucial role” in the fight against the Russian invaders.
“They are more maneuverable and have new technologies for protection against antitank missile systems, which provides better protection for both personnel and the equipment itself,” Major Berezovskyi explained.
Berezovskyi has implored Australia not to repeat the same mistake as in 2023, when Canberra disposed of a fleet of retired Taipan helicopters rather than giving them to Ukraine. He described that decision as “not wise and not acceptable.”
“If Australia had made a positive decision for us regarding those helicopters, they would have been extremely valuable and would have greatly assisted us in conducting medevacs for wounded soldiers,” Berezovskyi noted.
He thanked Australia for its support, including the provision of Bushmaster armored vehicles, and stressed that such help saves lives. “I would like to emphasize for the Australian government that today Ukraine is fighting for democracy and freedom, not only for Ukraine but for the rest of the civilized world,” the defender concluded.
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