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Australian extremists urged not to join Ukraine war over fear of posing security risk in their country
The ABC reported that political leaders and terror experts warn that Australians with radical views could be drawn to take part in the conflict in Ukraine, potentially posing a security risk if they return home.
It said that the Department of Home Affairs and spy agency ASIO have both said they monitor those travelling to join the conflict in the region, which has already drawn thousands of foreign fighters — including a small number of Australians — since 2014.
It is feared Russia's invasion could spark renewed global interest in joining the fight and Australian laws may not prevent extremists from travelling to take part and then returning home.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on "all citizens of the world" to join Ukraine’s defence.
In the past, right-wing and left-wing extremists have been drawn to both sides of the conflict.
Even as their compatriots battle to hold on to their capital, Ukrainians in Australia say they do not want to see ideologically motivated foreigners join the fight.
Stefan Romaniw, co-chair of the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations, told RN Breakfast: "If you've got an agenda, then I don't think you're serving anybody's purpose."
Vladimir Putin thanks his special forces for fulfilling their 'heroic' military duty in Ukraine
His message to those considering the trip was simple: "Don't."
Source: abc
