PM accused of talking up G20 Ukraine declaration

The leaders' declaration, issued on day one of the summit, agreed that all states "must refrain from threats" and that "today's era must not be of war".

While Ms Ley was pleased it mentioned the war in Ukraine, she was "unsettled" by Mr Albanese calling it "the strongest statement that has ever been made, which includes Russia".

"These statements are very difficult to find consensus on, but I think we need to be honest about their limits," she told ABC Radio on Monday.

"It stopped short of blaming the Russian Federation for the war, but our position remains clear. The invasion by Russia of Ukraine is illegal and immoral." 

Though there had been concern a joint statement might be out of reach due to Russia's unwillingness to condemn its military action, the final declaration did not point the finger at any one nation and instead asserted "there were different views and assessments of the situation".

Mr Albanese has defended the declaration.

"Given that Russia has been a part of this agreement, I think it's an extraordinarily strong statement," he said on Sunday.

"Russia has to have gotten the message, that this is having a devastating impact, and that the world wants this war to stop."

Liberal senator James Paterson said any condemnation of Russia's "illegal, unprovoked invasion of Ukraine is always welcome" but noted the joint statement was a positive regardless.

"There are some members of the G20 who, frankly, are quite supportive of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

"So to get any criticism at all out of the G20, given China's participation, is actually quite an achievement."

The leaders' declaration also called on Russia and Ukraine to ensure grain and goods deliveries were unimpeded and emphasised the need to accelerate efforts to phase down the use of coal.

The prime minister is expected to return from his diplomatic trip this week.