Donald Trump has launched a blistering attack on Kevin Rudd, the former Australian prime minister now serving as ambassador to the United States, calling him “nasty” and predicting he “won’t be there long” if Trump wins November’s presidential election. In an interview with Nigel Farage on GB News, the Republican nominee also said he had heard Rudd was “not the brightest bulb”.
The comments come after Rudd, before his appointment in March 2023, had been sharply critical of Trump, labelling him “the most destructive president in history” and “a traitor to the West” in posts on X. When asked about these remarks, Trump initially appeared not to know who Rudd was, then proceeded to insult him.
Australia’s foreign minister, Penny Wong, has strongly backed Rudd, saying he is doing “an excellent job” and would remain ambassador even if Trump returns to office. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese accused the opposition of a “cheap shot” over the issue, while Liberal leader Peter Dutton said the government must “repair” the relationship. An Australian government spokesperson stated simply: “Kevin Rudd is doing a good job as Australia’s Ambassador to the United States.”
Since becoming ambassador, Rudd has adopted a more conciliatory tone, saying he has “worked comfortably and seamlessly” with senior Republicans. The Aukus military pact between Australia, the US and UK was also mentioned in the interview, but Trump gave no sign of recognition. Joe Hockey, Rudd’s predecessor, had boasted of a strong relationship with Trump, even playing golf with him.
