Trump Slams Kevin Rudd as ‘Nasty’, Predicts Short Tenure as Australia’s US Ambassador

Former US President Donald Trump recently targeted former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, branding him as “nasty” and implying his tenure as Australian ambassador to the United States would be short-lived. Trump’s remarks surfaced during an interview with Nigel Farage, a former British conservative politician, on GB News.

Rudd, known for his outspoken criticism of Trump prior to assuming the ambassadorial role in March 2023, had previously described Trump as “The most destructive president in history” and accused him of fueling division and abusing Christianity to justify violence.

When questioned about Rudd’s criticisms, Trump initially seemed unfamiliar with Rudd, but then proceeded to disparage him, suggesting he wouldn’t last long in his position if he remained hostile. This exchange ignited a political controversy in Australia, with opposition figures accusing the government of politicizing diplomatic relations.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong swiftly came to Rudd’s defense, affirming that the government would retain Rudd as ambassador even if Trump were re-elected. She praised Rudd’s effectiveness in advancing Australia’s interests in the US, citing his extensive experience and skills.

Despite Trump’s comments, Australian officials stood by Rudd, emphasizing his contributions, particularly regarding initiatives like the Aukus military pact. However, concerns arose about potential repercussions for the Australia-US relationship if Trump returned to office.

Rudd, since assuming his ambassadorial role, adopted a more conciliatory tone, emphasizing the importance of maintaining robust diplomatic ties between the two nations. He highlighted his efforts to collaborate with senior Republicans and engage with members of Congress from both parties.

In response to Trump’s comments, Liberal leader Peter Dutton emphasized the need to repair the US relationship, stressing that Rudd should address any criticisms raised by Trump. However, other politicians expressed concerns about the potential impact on bilateral negotiations, especially regarding crucial agreements like Aukus.

Despite the controversy, Australian officials reiterated their support for Rudd, emphasizing the importance of his role in representing Australia’s interests in the US. The situation underscores the complexities of diplomatic relations and the challenges posed by shifting political landscapes on the international stage.