Trump Tells Australian Ambassador Kevin Rudd ‘I Don’t Like You’ in Tense Exchange

A White House meeting took an awkward turn this week. Former President Donald Trump bluntly told Australia’s ambassador, Kevin Rudd, “I don’t like you.” The incident occurred during a visit by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. According to Reuters, the tense moment was sparked by Rudd’s past criticism of Trump.

Officials from both nations were present to discuss a major submarine deal. The mood was otherwise friendly before the exchange. Trump’s comments created a brief but palpable tension in the room.

Confrontation Erupts Over Deleted Social Media Posts

A reporter asked Trump about Rudd’s previous statements. The former president suggested Rudd should apologize. Trump then turned to Prime Minister Albanese and asked if Rudd still worked for him.

Albanese gestured toward Rudd, who was seated nearby. Rudd began to explain that his criticism was made before his ambassadorial appointment. Trump interrupted him, delivering his blunt personal rebuke. Laughter from officials followed before questions moved on.

Australian Officials Downplay Diplomatic Tension

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong later described the remark as “tongin-cheek.” She pointed to the laughter in the room as proof. Wong emphasized the overall meeting was successful for the alliance.

Rudd, a former prime minister, had been a vocal Trump critic. He once called Trump the “most destructive president in history.” Those social media posts were deleted after Trump won the Republican nomination. The ambassador is known for his expertise on China, a key asset in his diplomatic role.

The public confrontation highlights the unpredictable nature of modern diplomacy. Such direct exchanges between a world leader and an ambassador are rare. This incident with Kevin Rudd will undoubtedly be analyzed for its impact on US-Australia relations.

Thought you’d like to know-

What did Kevin Rudd say about Donald Trump?

Before becoming ambassador, Rudd was highly critical of Trump. He posted on social media that Trump was a “traitor to the West” and the “most destructive president in history.” These posts were deleted later.

How did Australian officials react to the incident?

Foreign Minister Penny Wong downplayed the tension. She called the comment “clearly tongue-in-cheek” and highlighted the successful broader meeting between the two allies.

What was the main purpose of the White House meeting?

The meeting was primarily to confirm a major submarine deal between the US and Australia. The diplomatic alliance was the central focus before the personal exchange occurred.

Is Kevin Rudd expected to remain as ambassador?

There has been no official indication that Rudd will be recalled. His position and expertise on China are considered valuable for Australia’s diplomatic efforts in Washington.

Has Trump commented on Kevin Rudd before?

Yes. During his campaign, Trump previously called Rudd “nasty” in an interview. He suggested then that Rudd might not last long as ambassador if he were elected.

Trusted Sources

Reuters, Associated Press