Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has firmly defended Kevin Rudd's position as Australia's ambassador to the United States, asserting that the former prime minister “works his guts out” in Washington. The endorsement comes after Donald Trump told Rudd during a White House meeting that he “probably never will” like him, prompting an apology from the ambassador.
Speaking at a breakfast event with US politicians, Albanese dismissed opposition calls to sack Rudd, saying he would complete his term. He credited Rudd with boosting support for the Aukus pact among American lawmakers. “If there’s a harder-working ambassador on the Hill, then please let me know because Kevin works his guts out and he seems to know everything,” Albanese said.
The awkward exchange between Trump and Rudd occurred when the president did not initially recognise the ambassador. Trump later referenced Rudd’s 2021 description of him as a “village idiot” and “the most destructive president in history”, after which Rudd apologised and Trump responded “all is forgiven”. Asked if the incident could harm relations, Albanese replied: “No, not at all.”
Opposition Liberal leader Sussan Ley criticised Albanese’s “captain’s pick” of Rudd, calling on the prime minister to “back him or sack him”. She said the prime minister’s laughter during the Trump exchange showed the relationship was “not where it needs to be”. Albanese dismissed this as political gamesmanship.
During his visit, Albanese spent nearly three hours with Trump, receiving a “challenge coin” and inspecting plans for a new ballroom. He gave Trump a model submarine, jewellery for First Lady Melania, and Ugg boots for the president’s granddaughter. Albanese expressed hope the gifts would be “very well-received”.
