Australia imposes sanctions against Russian ghost fleet and negotiates with EU on security and defence partnership

The Australian government has imposed sanctions on 60 ships in the Russian ghost fleet for the first time, accused of circumventing international sanctions and supporting the war in Ukraine. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the opening of negotiations for a security partnership with the European Union, aimed at cooperation in defence, cyber security and the fight against terrorism. Australia is also seeking a free trade agreement with the EU, highlighting current trade challenges.