Australia Dismisses Russian Claims on Military Ties with Indonesia as Propaganda

Australia has firmly dismissed claims made by Russia regarding military collaboration with Indonesia, referring to the assertions as “propaganda.” In a letter published in The Jakarta Post, Sergei Tolchenov, Russia’s ambassador to Indonesia, downplayed Australia’s worries concerning reports of Moscow seeking access to a military airbase in the Papua province, suggesting that Australia’s interests should not interfere with those of sovereign nations pursuing independent policies.

Tolchenov further accused Australian officials of politicizing the issue amid election campaigns, suggesting that both major political parties were exacerbating tensions by invoking the “Russian card.” He questioned the relevance of Australian concerns regarding military activities that are over 1,300 kilometers away and pointed to Australia’s own military alliances with the United States, which he claimed present a more immediate threat to regional stability.

The controversy gained traction following a report from a defense publication indicating that Russia had requested permission to station military aircraft on Biak, an island near Darwin, although Indonesian authorities denied the existence of any foreign military base proposal. Prime Minister Albanese responded to the letter by categorically rejecting the Russian narrative, emphasizing his anti-Russia stance and expressing his intention to refrain from facilitating any Russian messaging.

Criticism of the government's response has emerged from opposition leader Peter Dutton, who accused Albanese of sidestepping accountability. The opposition demands a comprehensive national security briefing, asserting that ministers have provided inconsistent responses. In contrast, Labor Senator Murray Watt attempted to downplay concerns by questioning the validity of Russian proposals for a military base, while later refraining from reaffirming his statement when queried.

Indonesian authorities have reiterated that rumors surrounding Russian military operations from their territory are unfounded. Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto assured his Australian counterpart, Richard Marles, that reports of Russian aircraft was “simply not true,” and spokespersons for the Indonesian defence ministry have echoed this denial. Marles reiterated Australia's solid security ties with Indonesia, highlighted through various defense agreements and joint military exercises, while affirming that Australia respects Indonesia's sovereignty and the complexity of its historical relationships.