Following a recent meeting, Kevin Rudd was heard off-camera offering an apology to Donald Trump, to which the former U.S. President reportedly responded, “all is forgiven.”

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday morning, a critic expressed concerns about the incident, noting, “The president didn’t seem to recognize the ambassador. After making disparaging remarks about him, and for the prime minister to laugh along with those comments in front of everyone at the table, indicates that the relationship isn’t as strong as it should be.”

Emphasizing the importance of the alliance with the United States, Ley urged Prime Minister Albanese to either support or replace Rudd, stating that the relationship is “vital.”

Trump, meanwhile, stood by his decision on tariffs, explaining that Australia faces “very low” tariff rates, specifically a 10 percent baseline and 50 percent on steel and aluminum.

During a press conference, Trump was questioned by a reporter about past criticisms made by Australia’s U.S. Ambassador, Kevin Rudd, in social media posts, which added another layer to the ongoing diplomatic dynamics.

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”.