Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced an additional $60 million in support for Ukraine's defense against Russia's invasion, following an emotional meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at a United Nations event in New York. During the meeting, the two leaders signed a 10-year bilateral security agreement that includes $45 million for Australian military equipment, $10 million for Ukraine's energy support, and $5 million for humanitarian aid. This new funding brings Australia’s total assistance to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in 2022 to $1.9 billion. The agreement also includes plans for increased military training for Ukrainian forces to prepare for future Russian attacks, as well as potential collaboration on training centers and the joint production of air defense systems, missiles, and drones. Albanese praised Zelenskyy’s leadership, calling it “extraordinary” and stating that Russia had underestimated the resilience of the Ukrainian people. He emphasized that the security pact would remain in effect even after the war concludes, aiming to strengthen long-term ties between the two nations. Zelenskyy welcomed the agreement as the “strongest document between our countries,” highlighting its potential to boost trade and enhance security cooperation. In addition to the Ukraine deal, Albanese addressed the Atlantic Council, a global think tank focused on security and foreign policy, with a major speech on Australia’s foreign policy direction. He also signed a new strategic partnership with the Netherlands to strengthen defense ties and work toward justice for the victims of the 2014 MH17 air disaster, in which a Malaysia Airlines flight was shot down over eastern Ukraine. In his speech, Albanese is expected to argue that the global order established after World War II is no longer sufficient to address today’s challenges. He will stress the need for stronger alliances and international cooperation in a rapidly evolving world, emphasizing that traditional institutions may not be enough to maintain peace and stability in the 21st century.