AUS
Stories (5)
Albanese on US Role Shift Under Trump
Australian foreign policy under Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasizes diversifying alliances and engaging with middle powers as the U.S., under Donald Trump, shifts to a different global role. Key points: - Australia working more closely with Canada, Japan, France, and other middle powers; not in a “monogamous” alliance with the U.S. - U.S. moves toward protectionism and unilateral actions (tariffs, invasion of Iran) prompting Australia to seek broader partnerships in Eu
2026-05-24EU-Australia Trade Deal Tests Coalition Unity
Summary: The EU-Australia free trade agreement, signed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, faces a key test for Coalition unity in Australia. The government may need Greens support to pass the deal due to a growing ideological split within the Coalition: the Liberal Party’s pro-free-trade stance versus the Nationals’ protectionist, climate-focused skepticism of global agreements. The agreement aims to deepen ties with like-mind
2026-05-24Richard Marles on US Alliance and Defence
Summary: - Defence strategy shift: Australia will lift total defence spending by about $53 billion over the next decade, prioritising air and missile defence, communications and control, autonomous systems, and the AUKUS submarine program. Aims to build a more self-reliant defence capability while maintaining strong ties with allies. - US alliance reaffirmed: Defence Minister Richard Marles says the US-Australia alliance remains indispensable and that self-reliance should no
2026-05-24Vanuatu Signs Pacts with China and Australia
Summary: - Vanuatu’s cabinet has approved a new strategic cooperation pact with China, described by Prime Minister Jotham Napat as non-security focused and aimed at broad cooperation. - A diluted version of the Nakamal Agreement with Australia was also approved, with Vanuatu stating it is ready to sign; the government says the first version had sovereignty concerns regarding Australia’s oversight of critical infrastructure. - Napat criticized both Beijing and Canberra for see
2026-05-24Indo-Pacific security
Summary: - The Xi-Trump Beijing summit provided stability in a volatile global landscape rather than reshaping power dynamics. - For Australia, this stability affects several areas: - Defence and security: reduces near-term uncertainty in the Indo-Pacific, with potential implications for Australia’s strategic posture and deterrence. - Trade: a more predictable global environment could influence Australia’s trade outlook and resilience amid geopolitical tensions. - Stra
2026-05-24