Tony Abbott, a prominent supporter of Donald Trump, has strongly disagreed with the US President’s recent comments blaming Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for the ongoing war with Russia. Speaking on UK’s Times Radio, Abbott stated unequivocally that Russian President Vladimir Putin instigated the conflict and described anyone suggesting otherwise as “living in fantasy land.” He emphasised that peace cannot come at the cost of allowing aggression, asserting that Ukraine’s right to independence and security must be upheld.
Abbott, who has previously confronted Putin over the MH17 disaster, warned that without NATO membership for Ukraine, a viable peace deal would necessitate the presence of Western troops. He expressed concern that any ceasefire lacking this safeguard could be perceived as a “sellout” to a “vicious dictator.”
This critique came in light of Trump’s erroneous claims regarding Zelenskyy’s legitimacy and support, mirroring Kremlin narratives. In response, current Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reiterated support for Ukraine, promoting the struggle as one for international law and sovereignty. Conversely, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton condemned Trump’s remarks, highlighting that the Ukrainian fight is a defence of democracy against Putin’s dictatorship.