New Zealand Announces Over $16 Million Support Package for Ukraine
Ahead of the NATO Summit in The Hague, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters have unveiled a new $16 million NZD (approx. $9.8 million USD) support package for Ukraine, reinforcing New Zealand’s commitment to Ukraine’s defense and humanitarian needs, The Gaze reports.
“New Zealand stands in solidarity with Ukraine. Its war of self-defence is well into its fourth year and our condemnation of Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion remains undiminished,” said Prime Minister Luxon.
The package includes $4 million in contributions to two international defense initiatives, including the NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU) fund and the UK- and Latvia-led Drone Coalition for Ukraine, which is boosting Ukraine’s battlefield capabilities.
“The defence of Ukraine has significant implications not only for the security of the Euro-Atlantic, but also for the Indo-Pacific,” Foreign Minister Peters noted.
“We must continue to work with others in the international community to uphold a rules-based order that serves all our interests.”
In addition, New Zealand will provide:
• $7 million in humanitarian aid for conflict-affected communities in Ukraine
• $1 million to support Ukrainians displaced in neighboring countries
“The scale of need remains vast, as Russia continues its bombardment of densely populated civilian areas of Ukraine,”added Mr Luxon.
This package follows New Zealand’s recently imposed sanctions on Russia’s “shadow fleet” and entities facilitating its war efforts.
“It is vital the international community maintains pressure on Russia to end its war and engage meaningfully with efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine,” said Mr Peters.
As The Gaze previously reported, New Zealand has announced an extension of its military assistance to Ukraine, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the country’s self-defense efforts amid ongoing Russian aggression.