Trump Snubs Australian Ambassador Kevin Rudd During Press Conference: “I Don’t Like You and Never Will”

A dramatic moment unfolded during a recorded press conference with US President Donald Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, when Trump appeared to take a swipe at Australia’s ambassador to the United States, Kevin Rudd.

According to witnesses, Trump told Rudd, “I don’t like you and I never will,” after being asked about past criticisms the former Prime Minister had made of him. The comment reportedly came as Trump realized Rudd was present in the room, leaving the ambassador and others visibly surprised.

The press conference, which was broadcast and recorded, also covered a wide range of important issues, including trade, defence cooperation, and regional security in the Indo-Pacific. Prime Minister Albanese raised topics such as climate change, technology partnerships, and economic collaboration.

Diplomats noted that despite the tense exchange, the main goals of the press conference were not derailed. Both the US and Australian delegations emphasized the importance of the alliance and reaffirmed commitments to military, economic, and strategic cooperation.

Kevin Rudd, who served as Australia’s Prime Minister from 2007 to 2010 and now represents Australia as ambassador in Washington, has previously voiced sharp criticisms of US foreign policy and Trump’s approach to international affairs. Observers say the incident underscores the challenges ambassadors face when former political rivals are present in high-profile diplomatic settings.

While the remark grabbed media attention, officials said the broader discussions remained productive, with both sides focused on advancing shared strategic and economic priorities.