George Brandis (Queensland, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

The Australian government's view is that it is unacceptable for any nation to threaten the territorial integrity of Ukraine in any way. What needs to be done is to focus on how to step back urgently from the crisis. Clearly, a resolution of tensions will require urgent dialogue. The government is concerned to learn that a request by the new government of Ukraine for urgent talks with the Russian Federation has been rejected. The Australian government urges all parties to keep open the channels of communication. Within the UN Security Council, Australia has supported moves for international mediation, including by the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, and the European Union. We will continue to support such measures and any useful, necessary measures.