Donald Trump accused an Australian journalist of hurting Australia after he was asked about his business deals while in office during a recent state visit to the UK. John Lyons from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) inquired how much wealthier Trump became since returning to the White House, to which Trump responded defensively.
With a dismissive tone, Trump claimed he did not know the specifics, attributing his business affairs to his children. He went on to tell Lyons that he would inform Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese about him, implying that Lyons' questions set a bad tone for their countries' relations.
On the day of the incident, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported that it had been informed that space was no longer available for them at the press conference with Trump and UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer due to logistical reasons. However, they maintained their accreditation for meetings at the prime minister's residence.
During the exchange, Trump interrupted Lyons, holding his finger to his lips and telling him to be quiet before he shifted attention to another reporter. Following this encounter, Lyons insisted that his questions were appropriate and non-provocative, part of an ongoing investigation into Trump’s business dealings post-presidency.
The tension between the US and Australia has been palpable in recent months, particularly since the Trump administration initiated a review of the Aukus submarine deal, crucial to both nations. Compounding these issues, Australia has also encountered steep tariffs on exports to the US, a move Albanese criticized as unfriendly.
In the aftermath of the press conference, a social media post from an official White House account labeled Lyons a rude foreign Fake News loser, showcasing the growing hostility within diplomatic communications.
As relations seek to stabilize, Albanese and Trump plan to meet at the UN General Assembly, where discussions on improving ties are anticipated.
