WASHINGTON, 21 October (H.S.): A meeting at the White House between U.S. President Donald Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday featured a strikingly awkward exchange between Trump and Australia's ambassador, former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.
When asked by a reporter if Rudd's past critical comments had affected relations, Trump, initially appearing not to recognize the ambassador seated across from him, turned the question to Rudd directly. After Rudd identified himself and began to explain that his criticisms were made before he became ambassador, Trump interjected with a blunt dismissal.
I don't like you and I probably never will, Trump stated, creating a tense moment in the Cabinet Room.The exchange references social media posts from 2020 in which Rudd called Trump the most destructive president in US history.
Rudd had deleted the posts following Trump's 2024 election victory, stating it was out of respect for the office of the president. Trump had previously referred to Rudd as not the brightest bulb.
Despite the tense personal moment, the bilateral meeting between Trump and Albanese proceeded, with Australian officials later stating that Trump's comment was made tongue in cheek and that Rudd had apologized to the President afterward.
The leaders went on to sign a significant deal to enhance cooperation on critical minerals.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
