Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for stronger sanctions against Russia in a virtual address to Australia's parliament on Thursday, stressing global security is at risk as Russia threatens to use nuclear weapons in its invasion of Ukraine.
Speaking via a translator, Zelenskyy warned that fallout from a Russian nuclear attack could reach Australia, saying the war in his country is a "real threat" to Australia and other nations.
"The nature of evil...can instantly cross any distance, any barriers and destroy lives," he said. "We need new sanctions against Russia, powerful sanctions until they stop blackmailing other countries with nuclear missiles."
The speech led to a standing ovation from the members of the parliament, where Zelenskyy appeared on screen via video link.
In his address, Zelenskyy also requested that Canberra provide more military support, specifically mentioning Australian-built Bushmaster armored vehicles, which have hull to protect passengers from landmines and other explosive devices.
"For example, you have very good armed vehicles, Bushmaster, that could help Ukraine substantially," he said.
Australia has joined the United States, Britain and European Union member nations in imposing sanctions on Russia following the Feb. 24 invasion, including freezing the assets of Russian President Vladimir Putin, and providing military assistance by offering AU$91 million ($68 million) in aid to Ukraine.
Ahead of Zelenskyy's address on Thursday, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced a further AU$25 million of military assistance to support Ukraine's defense against the invasion.
The assistance package will include tactical decoys, unmanned aerial and ground systems, rations and medical supplies, Morrison said.
"The Australian government will continue to identify opportunities for further military assistance where it is able to provide a required capability to the Ukraine Armed Forces expeditiously," Morrison said in a statement.
The measures follow an announcement from Morrison earlier Thursday of an additional 35 percent tariff on all imports coming from Russia and Belarus, on top of general duties that already apply.
The tax increase will take effect April 25 alongside a prohibition on Russian oil and energy products.
Related coverage:
Japanese children perform music on street for Ukraine donation drive
Japan not pulling out of Russian energy project: PM Kishida
Putin was "misinformed" by advisers about Ukraine war: White House
