RSL Welcomes Trump’s AUKUS Deal Confirmation

MEDIA RELEASE

The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) has welcomed United States’ President Trump’s confirmation of the AUKUS defence agreement and that Australia’s promised nuclear submarines will be delivered.

RSL Australia National President Peter Tinley said the strong confirmation of the deal, made at yesterday’s meeting at the White House in Washington between President Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, was crucially important for Australia’s future defence in an increasingly unstable world.

Mr Tinley said the RSL supported the development of a balanced Australian Defence Force to meet current and future requirements and threats, and the AUKUS submarine purchase was a vital component of this.

“We are a trading nation, and the protection of our sea lanes is crucial. The nuclear submarines, when they come online, will help protect our sea trade, as well as acting as a deterrent to any player looking to damage us,” he said.

“While there are still some details to be worked through regarding the submarines, the strong confirmation provided by President Trump was pleasing.

“Prime Minister Albanese is to be congratulated on achieving this outcome as well as the other positive results from his meeting with the President,” Mr Tinley said.