Russia has recently issued a statement accusing Australian leaders of “playing the so-called ‘Russian card'” amid concerns regarding a potential military base in Indonesia. The accusation follows reports from the US intelligence website Janes, which revealed that Moscow has requested access to the Manuhua Air Force Base at Biak Numfor, located around 1,300 kilometres north of Darwin. While Indonesian officials have denied plans for the base, they have not explicitly confirmed or denied the Russian request.
In a response to media queries, Russian ambassador to Indonesia, Sergei Tolchenov, emphasised that military cooperation between Russia and Indonesia is vital for their intergovernmental relations and questioned Australia’s apprehensions. He argued, “It is hard to imagine that any ordinary Australians should be concerned about what is happening 1300 kilometres from their territory,” stating such cooperation aims to bolster defensive capabilities and does not threaten the Asia-Pacific security environment. Tolchenov also critiqued Australian political leaders for seemingly escalating tensions, stating they are utilising the “so-called ‘Russian card'” to showcase their anti-Russian sentiments to overseas powers.
In response, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese dismissed Russia’s claims, asserting that they were an attempt to influence public opinion in Australia. He noted, “Russia wants propaganda to be promoted by Australians. Of course, they want propaganda, and Russia engages in that.” While Russia has not yet confirmed its request to establish a base in Indonesia, speculation was heightened by recent meetings between Russian and Indonesian officials, including a visit from Russian Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov.
Despite these developments, Australia has reiterated its strong relationship with Indonesia, underpinned by the 2006 Lombok Treaty and reinforced by a Defence Cooperation Agreement signed last year. Australia engages in approximately 20 military exercises with Indonesia annually, highlighting the strategic importance of this partnership.
Defence Minister Richard Marles confirmed that he addressed concerns with his Indonesian counterpart, asserting that reports regarding Russian aircraft operating from Indonesia were false. Indonesian officials have also expressed that the claims are incorrect, further solidifying Australia’s position on the matter.
Albanese underscored the robust nature of Australia’s ties with Indonesia, declaring it “never been stronger,” while noting the differences in Indonesia’s historical relations with Russia compared to Australia’s. He affirmed that Australia’s national interests do not extend into the affairs of neighbouring sovereign nations pursuing independent policies.