An Australian man, Trevor Kjeldal, has died in Ukraine, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
Key Points:
- Trevor Kjeldal’s family described him as a ‘loved treasure’
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his condolences for the man’s “tragic” death
- Albanese reminded Australians they will not travel to Ukraine
A DFAT spokesman said officials were “providing consular assistance” to the man’s family.
“We send our deepest condolences to the family and ask that their privacy be respected during this difficult time,” the spokesman said.
“We cannot comment further.”
His family confirmed his death in a statement.
“Trevor was a much loved and cherished member of our family,” a family spokesman said.
“Our depth of sadness for his loss is unfathomable.”
“We would like to thank DFAT for their continued assistance in bringing him home.”
At a news conference in Brisbane, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the man’s death as “tragic news”.
“My condolences go out to this gentleman’s family and friends,” he said.
“I remind people that the advice from DFAT is that people should not travel to Ukraine. It is a dangerous place.
“My heart goes out to the family and friends of the gentleman involved.”
The federal government’s travel advisory for Ukraine remains “do not travel.”
DFAT’s ability to provide consular assistance to those traveling there is extremely limited due to the Russian invasion.