President Trump on Monday took a swipe at the Australian ambassador to the United States while seated across the table from him after being asked about previous critical comments the ambassador had made.
Ambassador Kevin Rudd was part of the delegation that joined Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for a meeting with Trump at the White House. One Australian reporter asked whether Trump had concerns with Albanese’s administration, or with things the ambassador had said about him.
“Did an ambassador say something bad about me? Don’t tell me. Where is he, is he still working for you?” Trump asked Albanese.
Albanese pointed out Rudd, who was sitting on the other side of the table.
“You said bad?” Trump asked Rudd.
“Before I took this position, Mr. President,” Rudd responded.
“I don’t like you either. And I probably never will,” Trump said before moving on to another question.
Rudd had been critical of Trump on social media in 2020, describing him as a “traitor to the West” and the “most destructive president in history.” Rudd has since deleted the posts.
Trump on Monday otherwise offered friendly words for Albanese, despite his administration being more left-leaning.
“I think he’s doing a really good job, and we’ve had a very good relationship,” Trump said of Albanese.
