CANBERRA(Reuters)BY Dr Majid Khan- In a recent development, a Russian diplomat who had been occupying a piece of land designated for a future Russian embassy in Australia has left the premises. This action comes in the wake of a court ruling that denied Moscow’s claim to the site situated near the Australian national parliament in Canberra. The cancellation of Russia’s lease by Australia on June 15, citing national security concerns, sparked criticism from the Kremlin, alleging anti-Russian sentiment on the part of Canberra. Subsequently, the Russian diplomat had taken refuge in a temporary building on the contested land, utilizing diplomatic immunity to avoid arrest.
Following Moscow’s appeal to retain possession of the disputed site, the Australian High Court delivered a verdict rejecting the appeal. Shortly thereafter, the Russian diplomat occupying the premises vacated the location, as reported by SBS News. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his government’s approval of the High Court’s decision, emphasizing the expectation for the Russian Federation to abide by the court’s ruling.
Deterioration of Moscow-Canberra Relations: The relationship between Moscow and Canberra has considerably deteriorated since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Australia, a significant non-NATO contributor to the Western support for Ukraine, has been actively providing aid, ammunition, and defense equipment to the country. In addition, Australia has imposed a ban on the export of alumina and aluminum ores, including bauxite, to Russia. These measures reflect the strong stance adopted by the Australian government in response to Russia’s actions in Ukr
The recent resolution of the squatter situation involving a Russian diplomat at the disputed site in Australia signifies the Australian High Court’s decision to uphold the cancellation of Russia’s lease. As diplomatic tensions continue to escalate between Moscow and Canberra, Australia remains committed to supporting Ukraine and maintaining its stance against Russia’s actions. The departure of the Russian diplomat from the contested site follows legal proceedings and sets the stage for potential future developments in the bilateral relationship between Australia and Russia.
