Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed concern over a report in Janes defense publication that Russia has requested to base military aircraft in Indonesian Papua. The issue has become a focal point of Australia’s election campaign. Albanese emphasized that Australia does not want to see Russian influence in the region and has reached out to Indonesia for clarification on the matter.
While Australia is seeking further information from Indonesia, Defense Minister Richard Marles has reportedly been assured by his Indonesian counterpart that there will be no Russian air force planes based in the country. However, Indonesia’s foreign ministry spokesperson Roy Soemirat stated that they have not heard of the report, and the defense ministry and military spokespeople have not responded to requests for comment.
Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto met with Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov in Jakarta, but details of their discussions were not disclosed. Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong highlighted the importance of Indonesia for Australian security and noted the defense cooperation agreement between the two countries. Opposition leader Peter Dutton also expressed concern over the report and sought a briefing from the Australian government.
The potential presence of Russian military aircraft in Indonesia’s Papua province raises regional security concerns, given its proximity to Australia. Both countries are working to address the issue and maintain a strong relationship with Indonesia.
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