Europe may turn to Australia to supplement its own gas supplies following the energy crisis caused by the Ukraine war.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The European Union is heading into winter without Russian pipeline gas, which accounted for roughly 40 per cent of its consumption last year.
Finland's ambassador to Australia said the geographic distance between Australia and Europe was an issue, but the bloc was open to all options.
"We are all trying to be more self-sufficient," Satu Mattila-Budich told AAP.
"There's a lot of work to be done and it won't be easy.
"Now the cold winter is approaching in Europe so we really have to, and we are, talking a lot about energy."
Ms Mattila-Budich said nuclear power was an important part of the Finnish energy mix, which would also help the country meet its climate targets.
Australia is considering what more support it can offer Ukraine after Russian missile strikes across the country.
At least 19 people were killed and dozens injured as the missiles rained down this week.
Leaders of the world's seven largest democracies vowed to back Ukraine for "as long as it takes" following the bombings.
Anthony Albanese highlighted Australia's commitment to stand with Ukraine during a phone conversation with Volodymyr Zelenskiy.
"I had a very good discussion with President Zelenskiy last night and conveyed to him the condolences of the Australian people for the quite horrific actions that were taken against civilian targets by Russian forces in recent days," Mr Albanese told ABC radio.
"I also conveyed to him our ongoing commitment to give every support we can to Ukraine. We'll give consideration to all requests that are made."
The prime minister said the struggle was about more than Ukraine and its sovereign borders.
"This is a struggle about the international rule of law, about whether it is respected and that is why the struggle of the Ukrainian people is so inspirational," he said.
"Against a much larger country with a much larger military but they are determined to defend their nation and they are making great sacrifices to do so."
Australia is considering sending troops overseas to help upskill Ukraine soldiers.
"The request is about training," Mr Albanese said.
"We'll give consideration to that and make an announcement at the appropriate time. But what we know is that the Ukrainian people are not going to give up."
Australian Associated Press
