Overview

• The White House on June 15 ordered a comprehensive review of the Aukus pact to ensure it meets President Trump’s America First criteria
• Sir Keir Starmer told reporters he has “no doubt” Trump will back the trilateral deal and reiterated the UK’s full commitment to the partnership
• Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said he remains very confident that submarine collaboration with the US and UK will proceed
• Under Aukus, Australia will receive up to five Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines from the US and join the UK and US in developing next-generation vessels
• Analysts warn that uncertainty around the review could weaken regional deterrence and play into China’s strategic aims in the Indo-Pacific