Australia Boosts Defence Spending, Seeks US Support Amid AUKUS Talks

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and US President Donald Trump have engaged in four warm and constructive phone calls discussing trade, economic ties, critical minerals, and shared security interests, including the AUKUS trilateral defense pact. Despite no confirmed date for an in-person meeting, both leaders are expected to meet on the sidelines of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, where Albanese is likely to seek assurances from Trump regarding AUKUS and US support. Trump publicly praised Albanese as a "good man," signaling a positive rapport between the two leaders amid ongoing tensions over US tariffs on Australian exports and differing stances on Middle East policy. Australia recently announced a $12 billion investment in the Henderson Defence Precinct to support nuclear-powered submarines under AUKUS, which Trump’s administration views favorably as it encourages increased allied defense spending. While the two leaders maintain constructive dialogue, Australia continues to advocate for tariff relief and to strengthen the US-Australia security relationship amid broader geopolitical challenges. The potential meeting at the UN is seen as a critical opportunity to further solidify this alliance and address outstanding issues.