Politics · Australia · 11 hrs ago
Shoebridge faces pressure over Greens’ opposition to military aid for Ukraine
Greens leader David Shoebridge faced calls to change the party’s Ukraine policy during an online meeting with three Ukrainian-Australian groups.
The Greens oppose military aid to Ukraine, which is defending itself against Russia’s invasion.
Shoebridge says the party would support aid if it were approved by a UN Security Council resolution, but Russia could veto such a decision.
Senator Sarah Hanson-Young has broken with Shoebridge and supports Australia helping to arm Ukraine.
The community groups say military aid is essential, while Shoebridge urged them not to alienate the Greens, whom he called an ally.
The dispute matters because the Greens’ position has angered some supporters and members of the Ukrainian-Australian community.
Shoebridge is due to meet Ukraine’s ambassador to Australia on Friday as he faces growing pressure over the party’s stance.
Greens leader David Shoebridge is facing criticism over the party’s opposition to military aid for Ukraine.
Leaders of three Ukrainian-Australian groups challenged him during an online meeting.
Shoebridge said the Greens would support military aid if it were backed by a United Nations Security Council resolution.
The community leaders urged the Greens to reconsider, saying practical support was essential for Ukraine.
Senator Sarah Hanson-Young has broken with Shoebridge, saying she supports Australia helping to arm Ukraine.
- Who
- Greens leader David Shoebridge and leaders of three Ukrainian-Australian groups. Senator Sarah Hanson-Young and Australian political figures have also weighed in.
- What
- Shoebridge is facing pressure to change the Greens’ opposition to military aid for Ukraine.
- When
- The meeting took place on Friday. The article was published on October 14, 2026.
- Where
- The meeting was online. The groups represent Ukrainian-Australian communities in Australia.
- Why
- The groups say military aid is essential to help Ukraine defend itself against Russia’s invasion.
Greens leadership
Ukrainian-Australian groups
Military aid
Greens leadership
Shoebridge said the Greens oppose military aid unless it is backed by a United Nations Security Council resolution.
Ukrainian-Australian groups
The groups urged the Greens to reconsider and provide Ukraine with practical support, including military aid.
Australia’s role
Greens leadership
Shoebridge said the Greens support solidarity with the Ukrainian-Australian community and oppose Russia’s invasion.
Ukrainian-Australian groups
The groups say advocating for military aid is essential as Ukraine faces Russian attacks.
Shoebridge won the Greens leadership.
Leaders from three Ukrainian-Australian groups challenged Shoebridge over the Greens’ position at an online meeting.
Labor Senator Raff Ciccone urged the Greens to reconsider their position in a Senate speech.
Shoebridge was scheduled to meet Ukrainian ambassador Vasyl Myroshnychenko.
- Greens leader
- David Shoebridge
- Groups at meeting
- Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations; Ukrainian Council of NSW; Ukrainian Community of Queensland
- Greens’ condition for aid
- A United Nations Security Council resolution
- Scheduled meeting
- Shoebridge and Ukrainian ambassador Vasyl Myroshnychenko on Friday
- Article publication
- October 14, 2026
What people are saying
The Greens have been clear from day one that we’re a party of peace and non-violence, and we don’t support military aid to the Ukraine.
Don’t burn your bridges. You need allies, and we are an ally
We urge Senator Shoebridge and the Greens to reconsider their opposition to military aid and ensure Ukraine receives all the practical support it needs to survive and win its fight for freedom,
Ukrainian-Australians have every right to advocate for the life-saving assistance needed to defend civilians and cities from nightly Russian missile and drone attacks