Rome: Australia has assured Ukraine that a retired fleet of Abrams tanks is "on the way" to the war-torn country to assist in its efforts to counter Russian aggression, as reported by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) on Monday. In a recent meeting in Rome with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized that Australia is committed to doing "whatever we can" to exert pressure on Russia.

According to Anadolu Agency - English, the Albanese government pledged last year to donate a fleet of retired tanks to Ukraine. However, these tanks remained in Australia due to delays partly attributed to resistance from the US, as noted by defense figures. US officials have privately expressed frustration over Australia's decision to send the tanks to Ukraine, despite the vehicles now beginning their journey to the battleground.

A US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, mentioned that complications were foreseen last year, noting that "sending these Abrams tanks would be complicated, and once they finally get to the battlefield, the Ukrainians will find them difficult to sustain." The recent discussions between Albanese and Zelenskyy centered on strategies to maximize pressure on Russia, with Australia already providing approximately AUD$1.5 billion ($962 million) in support to Ukraine.

Albanese refrained from disclosing details about the tanks' delivery schedule, citing concerns that it might compromise Ukraine's efforts in the war. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude towards Albanese for the tank donation and acknowledged Australia's ongoing support in resisting Russian aggression. Additionally, although Australia has sanctioned around 1,400 Russian individuals and entities, Zelenskyy indicated a desire for further action from Canberra. Albanese responded positively, stating that Australia would "continue to look at whatever we can do to place pressure on Russia."

In a related matter, Albanese cautiously addressed the European Union's push to deepen defense cooperation following a proposal from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for a new security partnership with Australia. After meeting with von der Leyen in Rome, Albanese expressed interest in the idea but noted that it was still in the "very early stages."