Defending Democracy with Malcolm Turnbull

Episode 6: Are we hiding under the security blanket of the American alliance?

11 snips
Apr 2, 2025
In this discussion, Professor James Curran, an expert in Australian and American foreign policy from Sydney University, dives deep into the shifting dynamics of the Australia-U.S. alliance. He questions whether Trump's influence is simply an aberration or represents a significant shift in international relations. Curran emphasizes the need for Australia to reassess its military dependency on the U.S., especially in light of rising tensions with China. Historical insights provide a backdrop for urgent conversations about Australia's future foreign policy strategy.
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INSIGHT

Denial and the ANZUS Blanket

  • Australia tends to deny the changing US relationship and clings to ANZUS.
  • This discussion is crucial for considering a future with a less dependable US alliance.
ANECDOTE

A Quiet Alliance

  • James Curran's book for Lowy Institute highlighted Australia's history of disagreements with the US.
  • He suggested a "quiet alliance" with less sentimental loyalty and automatic support.
INSIGHT

Trump 2.0: Aberration or Earthquake?

  • Trump 2.0 is potentially a major shift in international relations, not a mere aberration.
  • Governments often try to fit new events into existing assumptions instead of rethinking fundamentals.
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