Labor is very concerned about the continuing conflict in Ukraine.

Reports indicate that since April 2014, more than 5,300 people have been killed in the fighting.  That includes 38 Australians who tragically lost their lives when Russian backed rebels shot down Malaysia Airlines flight 17 over Ukraine.

Russia must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty.  It is completely unacceptable that Russia has failed to act in accordance with the agreement reached in Minsk last September.

We urge all parties to resolve their concerns diplomatically, without further bloodshed.  We welcome talks scheduled for this week between France, Germany, Ukraine, and Russia.

Australia has been directly affected by this terrible conflict.  The Government must be doing all it can to help bring about a peaceful resolution.


MONDAY, 9 FEBRUARY 2015

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