Anthony Albanese has strongly backed Kevin Rudd to remain as US ambassador, saying he “works his guts out”, and downplayed an awkward interaction with Donald Trump during their White House meeting.

It came after a prominent Republican congressman addressed Rudd in a speech in Washington DC, jokingly telling him: “I’m glad you’re still gainfully employed.”

The prime minister rejected calls from the opposition to sack Rudd, saying he would stay in the job to complete his term, and crediting the former prime minister for the popularity of the Aukus agreement among American politicians. Albanese hints US could still seek changes to Aukus agreement amid review Read more

Albanese said the viral moment between Trump and Rudd in which the president said he didn’t like the ambassador “

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