Australia Confirms Indonesia Rejects Russian Aircraft Basing Request

Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles confirmed that Indonesia has ruled out allowing Russian military aircraft to operate from its territory, following reports of a request from Moscow to base long-range bombers at an airbase in Papua. The request, reported by defense media outlet Janes, sparked concerns in Canberra regarding Russian influence in the region, which Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated Australia opposes. Indonesian officials have also denied any formal request from Russia, with Marles emphasizing the strength of the defense relationship between Australia and Indonesia, which was strengthened through a recent cooperation agreement. Despite the denials, analysts suggest that the strategic location of the airbase could facilitate monitoring of Western Pacific movements. The situation underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the South Pacific involving Russia, the U.S., and Australia. Opposition leader Peter Dutton has called for further briefings on the matter, reflecting the political ramifications of the reports during Australia's election campaign.