Following the conclusion of the meeting, Kevin Rudd was caught apologizing to Donald Trump away from the cameras. In response, the US president was heard saying, “all is forgiven.”

A commentator noted that Trump seemed unfamiliar with the ambassador and criticized him openly. The prime minister’s reaction, laughing at the remark in front of everyone present, suggested to her that the diplomatic ties are not as strong as they should be, she told reporters on Tuesday morning.

Ley emphasized the importance of the relationship with the United States, urging Albanese to either support Rudd or replace him.

Trump defended his tariff policies, pointing out that Australia faces “very low” tariffs, which include a standard 10 percent and a 50 percent rate on steel and aluminum.

A reporter questioned Trump about Australian ambassador Kevin Rudd’s previous critical remarks about him on social media.

Donald Trump was asked by a reporter about Australia’s US ambassador Kevin Rudd’s past criticism of him in social media posts. Source: Getty / Anna Moneymaker

Foreign Minister Penny Wong rejected criticisms of both Rudd and the meeting, attributing the government’s “calm, mature approach” to delivering “great success”.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong has hailed the meeting between Trump and Albanese a “great success”. Source: AAP / Lukas Coch

Greens senator Nick McKim was unhappy to see the AUKUS agreement proceed, arguing it should be “terminated”.