A senior US foreign policy analyst is confident Australia's potential offer to train Ukraine troops would be welcomed in Washington.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Russia has launched a barrage of missiles at Kyiv, after the Kerch Bridge linking Russia and Crimea was bombed.
At least 11 people have been killed following the assault.
Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of a "terrorist act" following the attack on the key supply route.
Richard Fontaine, a former advisor to Senator John McCain and visiting fellow at the Lowy Institute, said every nation had a "dog in this fight".
"Countries that are not at direct risk from the Russian invasion have stepped up in important ways," he said.
"Australian contributions to that effort ... would be welcomed in significant ways."
Mr Fontaine described the missile strikes being launched as immediate retaliation because it was "Putin's favourite bridge", which had both operational and symbolic importance.
"Putin when faced with defeat or escalation, each time has chosen escalation," he said.
"That's what he has done again, which he will do again."
Defence Minister Richard Marles said Australian troops could help train Ukraine's armed forces following Russia's "appalling" attack.
Mr Marles was with Ukraine's Ambassador to Australia when the news broke about the Kyiv bombings.
"The sense of heartbreak was really palpable," he told Sky News.
"We need to be making sure we are supporting Ukraine over the long term so that we're putting them in a position where they can actually resolve this conflict and end it on their own terms."
Mr Marles said sending Australian personnel to train Ukrainian forces was under consideration, as was supplying extra weaponry to the nation.
"Training is one of the measures that is being looked at," he said.
"We will be working up further support for Ukraine and that's a conversation that we're having."
Ukraine ambassador Vasyl Myroshnychenko labelled the Russian attack "horrendous" and said his children grew up near a playground hit by one of the missiles.
"The only purpose is to scare people, to terrorise people," he told the ABC.
"It is sending a strong message - that is, Russian revenge for the Kerch Bridge (linking the Crimea peninsula).
"It is only intimidation and it is psychological pressure. This is a war crime, what Russians have done, and they will be held to account."
Mr Myroshnychenko called on Australia to provide more support to his country.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton said Ukraine "deserves our support" and the government should listen carefully.
"There is a role for Australian troops in training, particularly if we're giving equipment," he told Sky News.
Australian Associated Press