Australian PM Distances Government from King Charles’ Medal Award to Soldier Accused of War Crimes
The Australian government has distanced itself from King Charles III's decision to award a commemorative medal to Ben Roberts-Smith, a former special forces soldier accused of war crimes in Afghanistan. Buckingham Palace made the award to all living Victoria Cross recipients, including Roberts-Smith, despite his involvement in the unlawful killings of four Afghan prisoners. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the government would not interfere in the matter.
The Australian government has distanced itself from a recent decision by King Charles III to award a commemorative medal to Ben Roberts-Smith, a former special forces soldier accused of war crimes in Afghanistan.
Buckingham Palace awarded medals to all living Victoria Cross recipients, including Roberts-Smith, who attended a ceremony in Western Australia.
Last year, an Australian Federal Court judge found Roberts-Smith involved in the unlawful killings of four Afghan prisoners, following a defamation case he brought against multiple newspapers.
Although he has faced no criminal charges and is appealing the verdict, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated his government would not involve itself in the matter, emphasizing it was a palace decision.
Buckingham Palace awarded medals to all living Victoria Cross recipients, including Roberts-Smith, who attended a ceremony in Western Australia.
Last year, an Australian Federal Court judge found Roberts-Smith involved in the unlawful killings of four Afghan prisoners, following a defamation case he brought against multiple newspapers.
Although he has faced no criminal charges and is appealing the verdict, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated his government would not involve itself in the matter, emphasizing it was a palace decision.
