The Daily Aus Headlines: Ben Roberts-Smith loses appeal bid
May 16, 2025
Ben Roberts-Smith faces a setback as his defamation appeal is denied, spotlighting ongoing legal battles. Meanwhile, the deadline for postal votes looms in Australia, adding tension to the electoral landscape. In international news, expectations for US-led peace talks between Russia and Ukraine this weekend aren’t high. On a lighter note, rugby star Ilona Maher is in Canberra for an exciting match against the Wallaroos, bringing a burst of sports enthusiasm to the discussion.
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Ben Roberts-Smith Appeal Fails
- Ben Roberts-Smith lost the appeal to his defamation case against Nine newspapers alleging war crimes.
- A judge found some allegations "substantially true," a decision the appeal court upheld, forcing him to seek the High Court.
Postal Votes Crucial in Election
- Postal votes must be received today to be counted for close Australian election seats.
- Seats like Bradfield and Goldstein have very tight margins, with hundreds of votes still to be counted.
Doubts on Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio doubts upcoming US-led Russia-Ukraine peace talks will achieve breakthroughs.
- Both leaders not attending personally raised doubts about the seriousness of ceasefire efforts among US officials.