Australia challenges Russia’s stance: Australia has strongly rejected Russia’s assertions that it has “no cards” to play in a regional military cooperation between Russia and Indonesia. The controversy began with a report by defense publication Janes that Russia had formally requested permission to base military aircraft at Biak, an Indonesian island north of Darwin.
Russia’s Letter
In a pointed letter published by The Jakarta Post, Russia’s ambassador to Indonesia, Sergei Tolchenov, dismissed Australia’s concerns over the reported request. Tolchenov accused Australian leaders of exploiting the issue for political gain during the country’s federal election campaign, claiming both major parties were “heating up the situation” and “playing the so-called ‘Russian card'”.
Australian Response
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese dismissed the Russian letter as authoritarian “propaganda” and reiterated his strong stance against Moscow. Albanese said, “I’m anti-Russia,” and added that Russia wants propaganda to be promoted by Australians. He declined to directly answer whether his government had received intelligence on a Russian approach to Indonesia, instead insisting he would not assist the spread of Russian messaging.
Opposition Criticism
The government’s handling of the issue has been criticized by opposition leader Peter Dutton, who accused Albanese of avoiding scrutiny. Dutton said, “The prime minister again has ducked and weaved on this issue today.” The opposition has called for a national security briefing on the matter, claiming ministers have been inconsistent and evasive.
Still on Australia challenges Russia’s stance
Indonesian Response
Indonesian officials have reiterated that there is no basis for the rumor. Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto told Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles that reports of Russian aircraft operating from Indonesia were “simply not true”. Indonesian Defense Ministry spokesperson Frega Wenas similarly told Reuters that the reports were incorrect.
Australia-Indonesia Relationship
Despite the controversy, Australia remains confident in its close security relationship with Indonesia, which is formalized through the Lombok Treaty and the Defense Cooperation Agreement. Australia conducts around 20 joint military exercises with Indonesia each year, and Albanese described the relationship as having “never been stronger”.
Albanese’s Stance
Albanese emphasized that Indonesia is a sovereign nation and that Australia will continue to put its argument about its own case and relationship with Indonesia. He noted that Indonesia and Russia have historically had relations that are different from Australia’s, and that Australia will not assist in promoting Russia’s propaganda messages.
US Vice President JD Vance Mourns Pope Francis’ Death After Easter Meeting
Would you like to Earn Money Online with just your mobile device?
If yes then click on the link below:
https://earnbean.ng/
