Ambassador John Bolton Tells 7NEWS Trump Re-Election Could Jeopardize AUKUS Subs Deal
Former U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton has expressed concerns about the future of the AUKUS submarine deal if Donald Trump is re-elected in 2024. In an interview with 7NEWS, Bolton suggested that Trump might reconsider or even dismantle the AUKUS alliance agreement, which was established to bolster military cooperation and nuclear-powered submarine capabilities between the U.S., Australia, and the U.K.
Bolton’s Warning
Bolton warned that Trump's potential re-election could bring a shift in U.S. foreign policy, particularly in alliances that require strong, consistent support from all partners involved. The AUKUS agreement, which is a cornerstone of Australia’s defense strategy and a significant step in the Indo-Pacific security landscape, could be jeopardized if Trump opts to move away from multilateral commitments.
Trump’s Approach to Alliances
Under Trump’s previous administration, there was a pattern of withdrawing from or renegotiating key international agreements, such as the Paris Climate Accord and the Iran nuclear deal. Bolton noted that Trump has historically favored transactional and unilateral approaches to foreign policy, which could result in a re-evaluation of the AUKUS pact’s terms or even a complete abandonment.
Impact on Australia’s Defense Plans
Australia’s commitment to acquiring nuclear-powered submarines through AUKUS is a substantial investment designed to boost the country’s long-term defense capabilities. Any change in the U.S. commitment could set back Australia’s defense timeline and undermine the strategic positioning intended through the alliance.
Mixed Reactions
Bolton’s comments have sparked a mix of responses, with some political and defense analysts agreeing that a Trump re-election could lead to unpredictable foreign policy moves, while others argue that Trump’s focus on a strong stance toward China might keep AUKUS intact.
The AUKUS alliance, launched in 2021, remains a critical framework for U.S.-Australia-U.K. security interests, and any potential disruption could have broad implications for stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
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