Donald Trump has declared he does not like Kevin Rudd and “never will”, in a sensational verbal lashing of Australia’s ambassador, delivered straight to his face.
Hosting Anthony Albanese and his Australian delegation at the White House on Tuesday (AEDT), the US President was asked if he was “concerned” by Mr Rudd’s past remarks.
Before becoming Australia’s envoy in Washington, the former prime minister had called Mr Trump a “village idiot” and a “traitor to the West”.
“I don’t know anything,” Mr Trump told reporters.
“When you say bad, then maybe he’d like to apologise.
“I really don’t know.”
He then turned to Mr Albanese, who was sat next to him.
“Did the ambassador say something?” Mr Trump asked.
“Don’t tell me.”
He then went searching for Mr Rudd, who was sitting opposite him.
“Where is he? Is he still working?” he said before spotting Mr Rudd sitting opposite.
“You said bad things?”
“Before I took this position, Mr President,” Mr Rudd replied, before Mr Trump cut him off.
“I don’t like you and I probably never will,” Mr Trump said, prompting laughter from the media pack and a bashful smile from Mr Rudd.
More to come.
Read related topics:Anthony AlbaneseDonald Trump
