Australia news updates live: Lismore residents call for help on social media; death toll from Queensland floods rises to eight

Lismore residents call for help on social media; up to 15,000 Brisbane homes may be affected by Queensland floods as death toll rises to eight; Australia lists Russia as ‘do not travel’ zone; Frydenberg discusses financial support for Ukraine ahead of Scott Morrison’s call with president; at least 11 Covid-related deaths recorded. Follow the latest updates live

Josh Frydenberg was asked if he believed the Russian president Vladimir Putin could turn the invasion into Ukraine nuclear.

He says it’s no secret that Putin may have ambitions beyond simply controlling Ukraine.

No one wants to see an escalation … but these are the dangers of the times and the insanity of what Putin has done … I’m worried there could be an escalation beyond the borders …

I’m worried that there could be an escalation beyond the borders and no doubt. That’s what other European nations or neighbouring countries are concerned about …

Just to get a sense of when will we find out the amount of money we’re committing to this issue … we’re working the details through you will find out probably today.

I mean, we’re going to start with an initial payment. It will be in the millions, and it’s not going to be the same sort of quantum that United States or the United Kingdom would provide but you know, where we can …

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Source: The Guardian