If Russia were to become “weakened” as a result of waging in war in Ukraine, China would become the world’s “lead” authoritarian power, says Liberal Senator Jim Molan.

“China would be very, very happy if Russia was bled out in Ukraine,” Mr Molan said.

“Because then you see China as the lead authoritarian country in the entire world.

“Before this Ukraine war … there were two leading authoritarian countries.

“And in the future, if Russia is weakened, if NATO is weakened, if the world is weakened and China is strong - that’s in their interests.”