Trump Doubts Forgiveness for Rudd Amid White House Tensions

President Donald Trump has expressed lingering resentment toward Australia's ambassador to the US, Kevin Rudd, over past critical comments Rudd made before his diplomatic appointment. Despite a seemingly cordial White House meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese where Trump said "all is forgiven," the president later stated he does not forget when people say bad things about him, casting doubt on the sincerity of his forgiveness. Trump explicitly told reporters he did not know much about Rudd and recalled that Rudd had said negative things about him a long time ago. The Australian government described Trump's harsh remarks as "tongue in cheek," but the president's comments suggest ongoing tension. Additionally, Trump noted he has potential candidates in mind for a new US ambassador to Australia, a role that has been vacant since late 2024, and expressed intent to choose someone agreeable to Albanese. This diplomatic dynamic comes amid important meetings and trade discussions between the US and Australia.