Trump tariffs: Anthony Albanese, Peter Dutton must admit we cannot rely on US

Key Concerns Regarding US Alliance

The article centers on the debate surrounding Australia's reliance on the US alliance, particularly in light of Trump's policies and their global impact. Experts highlight the need for a shift towards Australian self-reliance, emphasizing the unreliability of the US as an ally under the current circumstances.

Experts' Opinions

Prominent figures in Australian security and defense, including former department secretaries and intelligence chiefs, expressed concerns about the declining reliability of the US and the potential for a lost global decade due to economic instability and erosion of the liberal democratic order. They discussed the need to adapt to a changing world order and the challenges posed by AUKUS.

• Heather Smith pointed to Trump's belief in the need for a fundamental transformation of the US economy, even at the risk of a recession.
• Dennis Richardson acknowledged the contradictions of needing AUKUS to work despite America's reduced reliability.
• Rachel Noble emphasized the importance of intelligence sharing under the Five Eyes agreement.
• Hugh White highlighted the need for ANZUS to support Australia's independent defense, recognizing the decline of American primacy.

The consensus among these experts was that Australia must prepare for a challenging future.

Political Response

The article critiques the responses of Australian leaders Albanese and Dutton, arguing that tough rhetoric and appeasing Trump are insufficient. There is a suggestion that Australia should wait for Trump to damage America to the point where it forces a reckoning within the US, potentially influencing the midterm elections.

Conclusion

The article concludes by stressing the Australian interest in seeing Trump's actions damage America significantly, potentially leading to political change in the US that necessitates a reassessment of Australia's approach to its alliance with the US.