The United Kingdom’s leading envoy to the AUKUS security partnership has expressed strong backing for Australia’s significant contributions, emphasizing that the agreement provides immense value to the United States and its allies. He highlighted the critical importance of the pact and its benefits for all involved.
In May, the US Department of Defense unexpectedly initiated an internal review of AUKUS, aiming to ensure alignment with former President Donald Trump’s “America First” policies. This move took Australia by surprise and raised questions about the future of the alliance.
Sir Stephen Lovegrove, a former senior British civil servant who previously led the UK’s review of AUKUS and is now serving as Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s special envoy, is currently visiting Australia for discussions with top officials and military leaders.
During an interview on a prominent television program, Lovegrove reassured that he was not concerned about the US review. He pointed out that AUKUS enjoys strong support in Washington and delivers substantial benefits to the US military and diplomatic efforts.
“The US Navy is fully behind it; I speak with them frequently. The State Department supports it strongly, and many in the Defense Department are engaged with AUKUS and what it offers,” he said.
He added, “I am confident that we will find the right outcome for the US, Australia, and the UK. This is a vital, critical program.”
Meanwhile, a senior official from the Trump era overseeing the US review, Elbridge Colby, indicated that the US would only be able to sell Virginia Class submarines to Australia under AUKUS if Canberra increases its submarine production to at least two vessels per year, a move seen as essential to advancing the partnership.
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