U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly told Australia’s Ambassador to the United States, Kevin Rudd, “I don’t like you either,” during a tense diplomatic encounter at the White House last week.
According to multiple media reports, the comment came after what sources described as a “frosty” exchange between the two men during a private event.
President Trump, who has often clashed with foreign diplomats, was said to have made the remark after Rudd challenged some of his recent foreign policy comments. The former Australian Prime Minister, known for his outspoken views on global affairs, reportedly remained calm and professional during the encounter.
While the White House has not officially commented on the exchange, Australian media outlets have described it as an “awkward moment” that underscores growing tensions between the two nations over trade and regional security.
Ambassador Rudd, who previously served as Australia’s Prime Minister from 2007 to 2010 and again in 2013, has been a vocal critic of Trump’s approach to international diplomacy, particularly his stance on climate policy and alliances in the Indo-Pacific region.
Observers say the exchange reflects a broader shift in tone between Washington and Canberra, though both governments maintain that their bilateral relationship remains strong.
