A diplomatic row has emerged following Russia’s expressed interest in establishing a military presence near Australia, with Moscow accusing Canberra of employing a strategic maneuver dubbed the “Russian card.” The situation stems from a formal request by Russia to utilize Manuhua Air Force Base at Biak Numfor, Indonesia – approximately 1300 kilometers north of Darwin.
Initially reported by US intelligence website Janes last week, the Russian government’s intention involves basing aircraft within the Indonesian province of Papua. Despite initial denials from Indonesian officials regarding the prospect of a base, they have yet to officially confirm whether the request was submitted.
Russian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sergei Tolchenov, responded to concerns raised by media outlets with a pointed letter published on X (formerly Twitter). He asserted that military cooperation between Russia and Indonesia is a fundamental element of their intergovernmental ties. “It is hard to imagine that any ordinary Australians should be concerned about what is happening 1300 kilometres from their territory, about matters that concern relations between other sovereign states and have nothing to do with Australia,” he stated.
Tolchenov further elaborated on the nature of the cooperation, describing it as aimed at bolstering defensive capabilities for both nations, without targeting any third countries or posing a security threat in the Asia-Pacific region. He then sharply criticized Australia’s actions, accusing Australian political leaders of attempting to provoke antagonism towards Russia. “Canberra’s national interests cannot extend to the territory of neighbouring sovereign states that pursue active and independent policies,” he declared.
The Ambassador escalated his criticism, alleging a deliberate attempt by Australian leadership – characterized as “democracy in name only” – to outshine one another through provocative actions. He asserted, “They stop at nothing, and the time has come to play the so-called ‘Russian card’. This means to show the overseas mentors who is more anti-Russian and Russophobe.” Tolchenov concluded with a dismissive remark: “You have no cards.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed these concerns, stating that Russia’s objective appears to be promoting propaganda through Australians. “Russia wants propaganda to be promoted by Australians. Of course, they want propaganda and Russia engages in that,” he commented.
Adding to the complexity, Russia has not confirmed its request for a base in Indonesia, though Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov’s meetings with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu’s meeting with Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin further fueled speculation.
Australia maintains strong ties with Indonesia through the 2006 Lombok Treaty and a reinforced Defence Cooperation Agreement signed last year. Approximately 20 military exercises are conducted annually between the two nations, described as “one of Australia’s most important bilateral relationships.”
Following last week’s reports, Defence Minister Richard Marles directly addressed the situation, stating that his Indonesian counterpart unequivocally denied the prospect of Russian aircraft operating from Indonesia. Similarly, Indonesian Defence Ministry spokesperson Frega Wenas confirmed to Reuters that the initial report was inaccurate.
Prime Minister Albanese emphasized the strength of Australia’s relationship with Indonesia, noting, “Indonesia and Russia have historically had relations that are different from Australia’s.” He underscored the importance of clarifying the situation with Indonesia, highlighting their shared commitment to maintaining a strong partnership.
“Indonesia is a sovereign nation. So we continue to put our argument about our own case and our own relationship with Indonesia,” he stated.