Albanese, Trump Meet at G7 Amid AUKUS Uncertainty

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set for his first face-to-face meeting with US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Canada, focusing on the AUKUS submarine pact, US tariffs, and deepening defense ties amid concerns over China. The US is urging Australia to increase its defense spending and is reviewing the $368 billion AUKUS nuclear submarine deal, on which Australia currently lacks a backup plan if it fails. Albanese has also discussed expanding defense and technological cooperation with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Other key summit topics include the Israel-Iran conflict, energy security, and access to critical minerals. The summit unfolds amid heightened geopolitical tensions, putting the US-Australia alliance and global security in sharp focus. Albanese continues to emphasize the importance of Australia's position and alliances.