Trump needs a simple, clear message for Putin. If he wants to end the war quickly – and he does – he will have to tell the Russian leader the US and its allies will never allow Ukraine to be captured by the Russian military.
It’s ‘astonishing’ that in the era of progressive economic orthodoxy no one asks where the money is coming from.
During the campaign there were flashes of a values debate but they didn’t happen often. The Liberals looked too frightened to confront their opponents head on with their principles.
The first instinct of the international community is to think that in time America will return to its free-trading regime. But that would be a big mistake.
Instead of properly funding our defence force, our governments have been wasting money on windmills and solar panels that will not make one jot of difference.
It is possible that the Labor Party or the Coalition will win an absolute majority. Still, what could we expect from a hung parliament?
Donald Trump not only has to deter an aggressive China but also needs to ensure Israel’s existence is not jeopardised by Iran. Rich Europe can deal with Russia with American back-up.
Just because Donald Trump’s language drives the European status quo mad doesn’t mean the end of the Western alliance. It’s about reassessing priorities and reallocating burden-sharing.
Remember the old saying of Abba Eban: ‘The Palestinians never miss an opportunity to miss an opportunity’. Trump offers them one and the negotiations should begin.
Australians are proud of their country, proud of how it has evolved into one of the world’s most prosperous, fair and free societies. That’s something mighty to celebrate.
Original URL: https://www.theaustralian.com.au/author/alexander-downer