Greens leader Adam Bandt and former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull have voiced concerns about the impact of US President Donald Trump’s tariffs and the AUKUS deal. Bandt, in agreement with Turnbull, called on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to push back against Trump’s tariffs, stating that Trump is dangerous for climate, peace, and democracy. They highlighted the unpredictability of Trump’s actions and urged Australia to stand up for its own interests.
Turnbull emphasized the need for Australia to not be sycophantic towards the US and to recognize that the US government, especially under Trump, acts in its own national interest. He warned against the idea of altruism from Washington towards Australia and urged the government to make the case that tariffs imposed by the US are not in their best interest. Turnbull also questioned the support Australia is providing to the US submarine industry under the AUKUS deal, stating that there is no guarantee of receiving submarines in return for the financial investments made.
Bandt echoed Turnbull’s concerns about the AUKUS deal, criticizing the billions of dollars of public money being handed over to the US without any assurances in return. He highlighted the contradiction in Australia supporting the US submarine industry while also facing potential threats of tariffs on Australian products. Bandt expressed his opposition to the AUKUS deal and emphasized the need for Australia to reassess its relationship with the US, particularly in light of Trump’s presidency and his unpredictable policies.
Both Bandt and Turnbull raised valid points about the need for Australia to assert its own interests and not blindly follow the US in international relations. They highlighted the importance of making a strong case against tariffs imposed by the US and reevaluating the investments made in supporting the US submarine industry. Their criticisms of the AUKUS deal underscore the concerns about the lack of guarantees and transparency in the agreement, as well as the potential risks it poses to Australia’s national security and economic interests.
Overall, Bandt and Turnbull’s comments reflect a growing sentiment within Australian politics about the need to reassess and potentially recalibrate the country’s relationship with the US. Their calls for standing up to Trump’s tariffs and questioning the AUKUS deal signal a shift towards a more independent and assertive foreign policy approach. As Australia navigates its position in the global arena, it will be crucial for the government to carefully consider the implications of its alliances and investments to ensure the country’s security and prosperity in the long term.
