Australia defends U.S. Ambassador Kevin Rudd after Trump threat

Australia defends Ambassador to Washington after Trump criticism, highlighting Rudd's effectiveness and diplomatic skills in advancing Australia's interests.

Australia insisted on March 20 that its Ambassador to Washington was doing a “good job” after Donald Trump suggested he was “not the brightest bulb” and could be expelled from the United States.

Mr. Trump lashed out during a TV interview at former Prime Minister-turned-diplomat Kevin Rudd, who has been critical in the past of the bombastic former U.S. President.

When prompted to comment on Mr. Rudd, Mr. Trump said he had heard he was “a little bit nasty”.

“I hear he is not the brightest bulb,” Mr. Trump said, adding that “if he is at all hostile, he will not be there long”.

Mr. Trump is currently the frontrunner to win November’s U.S. Presidential election, although polls suggest the race against incumbent President Joe Biden could be very close.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said on March 20 that Mr. Rudd would remain in the role and had the government’s confidence.

“Mr. Rudd is a very effective Ambassador. He is recognised across this parliament as doing an excellent job in advancing Australia’s interests in the United States,” she told reporters in Canberra on March 20.