The Australian government should accept a request from Ukraine to ship coal to help keep electricity running over winter as Russia targets energy infrastructure, the federal opposition says.
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Russia's invasion of Ukraine is nearing its second anniversary and international aid has started to dwindle.
Kyiv has requested Australia send shipments of coal so citizens don't freeze over the cold winter months.
Australia should have proactively offered aid before winter but failing this, the request needed to be accepted, opposition foreign affairs spokesman Simon Birmingham said.
"As late as it is, the Albanese Government should immediately commit to continue crucial energy support to Ukraine," he said.
"(Ukraine's) war to defend their sovereignty from Russia's illegal invasion is also a significant test of democratic nations' resolve to defend international rules."
The previous coalition government pledged about 70,000 tonnes of thermal coal to Ukraine.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is in contact with the Ukrainian embassy after receiving the ambassador's request in December.
"Australia is helping empower Ukraine to end the war on its own terms," a spokesperson said.
"We are in close contact with the Ukrainian embassy and our partners to ensure we are making the most effective contributions."
Australia has committed more than $900 million in assistance to Ukraine, including $730 million in military support.
Australian Associated Press
