Imran Khalid

As Australia's most critical military ally in the Asia-Pacific, the United States' role looms large in shaping Australian defense policy, particularly when considering the implications of Donald Trump's return to the White House on Jan. 20. In view of Trump’s trademark foreign policy disgorgement over key global issues, there are growing concerns within the Australian government, reflected by senior officials, that Trump may rethink or even dismantle this strategic alliance.

The early reactions from key Australian officials reveal underlying concerns. Foreign Minister Penny Wong, reflecting on Trump’s second term, emphasized, "We look forward to particularly prioritizing AUKUS in our engagement with the Trump administration." AUKUS is the trilateral security alliance between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Wong has been projecting AUKUS as a top priority in engaging with the next U.S. administration. She expressed a focus on AUKUS, describing it as the primary issue on Australia's radar, highlighting its swift evolution as a linchpin in the bilateral relationship. A mere three years ago, AUKUS was labeled as a relatively new venture with limited scope, but today, it has become the top priority in discussions with the U.S. government.

For Canberra, it has swiftly eclipsed other major defense initiatives, as well as economic concerns. In this new political landscape, Australian leaders are understandably wary of how a Trump administration might approach their carefully crafted strategic ties. Will AUKUS remain a pillar of their security framework, or could it be redefined under a different American leadership?

There is little doubt that the........

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