Radio National Breakfast Breakfast Wrap: The US President calls out Australia
Mar 17, 2026
Andrew Hastie, Shadow Minister focused on national security and sovereign capability. Jim Chalmers, Federal Treasurer managing economic policy and budget forecasts. Malcolm Turnbull, former prime minister with foreign policy experience. They discuss Trump’s criticism of allied naval escorts, risks around the Strait of Hormuz, implications for Australia’s sovereignty and alliance reciprocity, and possible tax reform amid economic uncertainty.
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Trump Publicly Calls Out Australia Over Hormuz
- Donald Trump publicly criticised allies like Australia for not escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz.
- Tom Crowley notes Trump removes goodwill quickly when allies refuse requests and frames NATO as a one-way street.
Turnbull Warns AUKUS Undermines Australian Sovereignty
- Malcolm Turnbull called Trump "lashing out" and urged Australia to pursue greater independence from the US.
- Turnbull argued AUKUS is a "catastrophic deal" leaving Australia dependent on US submarines and lacking sovereign control.
Hastie Says Allies Were Not Consulted On Conflict
- Andrew Hastie called Trump's Truth Social post petulant and warned the Strait closure risks a global oil shock.
- He emphasised allies weren't consulted and reciprocity is key in longstanding alliances.