Kevin Rudd, the new Australian ambassador to the United States and former PM of Australia, greets President Donald Trump at the White House. Beyond our borders, they elaborated on an enormous multi-billion-dollar deal for critical minerals. The meeting comes despite a history of Rudd’s past criticism of Trump, for which he has since apologized. The U.S. is doing all it can to bolster its partnership with Australia, particularly in the rare earths space. This continuing dialogue highlights both the challenges and promising opportunities that characterize their budding diplomatic relationship.
At their meeting, Trump responded to Rudd’s earlier anti-Trump social media messages. Rudd—who had tweeted up a storm on the matter, until retreating to delete the tweets in advance of assuming his ambassadorship—then entered a rocky marriage of sorts. And he didn’t throw his staff under the bus. When asked outright by Trump about these comments, Rudd defended himself by saying these comments were made before his appointment.
“When they say bad about me, I don’t forget.” – Donald Trump
In light of the tumultuous history, when Rudd said he regretted his previous comments, the reunion turned into an entirely spontaneous and heartwarming moment of reconciliation. Trump had previously extended an olive branch to Rudd for his statements, saying that Yet, unlike what many believed, he outlined a much more complex relationship between the two. He remarked to Chu, “I don’t like you either, and I probably never will,” highlighting the long-standing tension that continues to exist between them.
Focus on Critical Minerals
Their meeting was aimed at a landmark minerals agreement. The intent of the agreement is to increase the domestic processing and supply of rare earth elements. These so-called “technology materials” are critical to nearly every new technology today—from mobile phones and solar panels to defense systems. As global demand for these resources rises, the United States sees Australia as a crucial partner in securing its supply chain.
Rudd’s new role as ambassador puts him in the middle of this strategic partnership. Both countries are working together on mineral resources to further bolster their economic partnership. This agreement lessens their dependence on foreign adversaries for key materials, including lithium. The agreement comes amidst bipartisan and bicameral efforts to increase domestic production and innovation in clean energy technologies.
AUKUS Pact and Future Relations
Beyond economic issues, Trump further strengthened his pro-AUKUS position. This trilateral security agreement between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States lays the groundwork for future cooperation on defense and technology-sharing, specifically in the development and deployment of nuclear-powered submarines.
AUKUS pact has quickly emerged as a central pillar of U.S.-Australia bilateral relations, especially in the context of deterring growing regional security threats. Rudd’s advocacy for this initiative reinforces Australia’s commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities alongside its allies.
As both leaders carefully walked around their complicated pasts during this summit, they set the stage for real partnership going forward. While personal grievances linger, the overarching goal remains clear: enhancing bilateral relations for mutual benefit in security and economic sectors.
