Aukus is among Australia’s worst foreign policy decisions and requires ‘heroic’ optimism, Gareth Evans says
Summary
Former Australian foreign affairs minister Gareth Evans criticized the Aukus security agreement, saying it is one of Australia’s worst foreign policy decisions. He warned that the submarines provided under the deal will mainly serve U.S. interests and that the U.S. might not defend Australia if attacked, as the submarines are linked closely to American military strategy.Key Facts
- Aukus is a $368 billion nuclear submarine deal between Australia, the U.S., and the UK.
- The deal involves transferring and building submarines in Australia starting in the early 2030s.
- Evans said the submarines will function as extensions of the U.S. Navy rather than an independent Australian force.
- He believes the U.S. would only help Australia if its own military assets on Australian soil were threatened.
- The production of these submarines faces delays, cost increases, and industrial challenges in both the U.S. and UK.
- Australia plans to spend $4.5 billion over 10 years to help improve submarine production rates.
- Critics say the deal increases the risk of conflict with China and may paint Australia as a military target.
- A public inquiry is underway, including hearings with experts and officials, to examine the agreement’s implications.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.