Overview

• Indonesia's Defence Ministry has officially dismissed reports that Russia requested to base military aircraft at the Manuhua Air Force Base in Papua.
• Australian officials, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, have sought clarification from Indonesia, emphasizing concerns over Russian influence in the region.
• Defence Minister Richard Marles confirmed that his Indonesian counterpart assured him there would be no basing of Russian aircraft in Indonesia.
• The initial report, published by Janes, linked the alleged request to a February meeting between Russian official Sergei Shoigu and Indonesia's Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin.
• The proximity of the Papua airbase to northern Australia had raised significant security concerns, with opposition leaders in Australia calling for transparency and vigilance.