The Greens' stance on Ukraine has faced mounting criticism since Shoebridge became party leader earlier this month. At a meeting with the Ukrainian-Australian community, he cautioned members not to get the minor party offside, sources said.
Shoebridge has since faced a public split within his own ranks. Senator Sarah Hanson-Young declared her support for Australia helping to arm the Ukrainian military, directly contradicting the party's official position.
After winning the leadership, Shoebridge told this masthead: "The Greens have been clear from day one that we're a party of peace and non-violence, and we don't support military aid to the Ukraine." He added that the party would support such aid if backed by a United Nations Security Council resolution, though critics note Russia would inevitably use its veto power to block any such move.
Shoebridge's scheduled meeting with Ambassador Myroshnychenko on Friday comes as the Greens leader attempts to quell a growing backlash that has shocked many supporters and the Ukrainian diaspora. The party's position has also drawn attention to broader defence policy red lines, including opposition to weapons for Ukraine and a desire to curtail the US alliance.