In an unexpected slip of the tongue, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley mistakenly stated that the government should support the illegal occupation of Ukraine by the “Soviet Union” during a press conference in Albury on Friday. The comment, made 34 years after the USSR was formally dissolved, quickly drew attention and necessitated clarification.
While discussing the provision of 49 Australian Abrams tanks donated for use on Ukraine’s frontlines, Ley suggested that the Australian government needed to back Ukraine against the USSR. However, her remarks inadvertently implied support for the occupation of Ukraine, rather than its defense against Russia, the current aggressor.
“The government should always stand ready to support the illegal occupation of Ukraine by the USSR, by the Soviet Union, and unfortunately, it’s taken too long to provide this support in the form of the Abrams tanks,” Ley stated.
Following the gaffe, a spokesperson for Ley’s office clarified that she intended to reference Russia, not the defunct Soviet Union. The official transcript was subsequently amended to read: “The government should always stand ready to support illegal occupation of Ukraine by [Russia].”
Historical Context and Political Implications
Ukraine was part of the Soviet Union until its dissolution on December 26, 1991. The historical ties between Russia and Ukraine have been a significant factor in the ongoing conflict. Russian President Vladimir Putin has often referred to the fall of the Soviet Union as the “greatest geopolitical catastrophe of the century,” a sentiment many interpret as a desire to restore the former union’s influence.
Putin’s incursion into Ukraine on February 22, 2022, is widely viewed as an attempt to reclaim territory lost by Moscow in 1991. This backdrop makes Ley’s error particularly sensitive, given the current geopolitical tensions and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Political Gaffes: A Common Occurrence
While political figures are typically well-versed in their talking points, verbal missteps are not uncommon. In early 2025, then-employment minister Murray Watt, a seasoned media professional, made a notable gaffe during an interview on Seven’s Sunrise. When asked about changing the date of Australia Day, Watt initially stated, “No, I think the date should change Eddy,” before quickly correcting himself to align with government policy.
“We’ve said repeatedly we don’t want to change the date, and I’m not surprised to see that percentage of people in Australia say we should keep the date in place,” Watt clarified.
Expert Analysis and Forward-Looking Perspectives
Political analysts suggest that such gaffes, while sometimes humorous, can have serious implications, especially in international contexts. Dr. Emily Carter, a political science professor, notes that these errors can undermine a politician’s credibility and distract from their intended message.
“In international relations, precision in language is crucial. A slip can inadvertently signal a shift in policy or stance, which can be exploited by adversaries,” Dr. Carter explained.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the need for clear and consistent messaging from global leaders remains critical. The Australian government, along with its allies, faces the ongoing challenge of supporting Ukraine while navigating complex diplomatic landscapes.
For Ley, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of careful communication, particularly on issues of international significance. As political dynamics evolve, leaders must be vigilant in their public statements to avoid misinterpretations that could have far-reaching consequences.
