During his state visit to the UK, US President Donald Trump lashed out at Australian journalist John Lyons of the ABC, accusing him of "hurting Australia" after being asked about his personal wealth since returning to office.
Lyons questioned Trump on whether he had become wealthier since assuming the presidency in January. Trump responded, “I don’t know,” claiming his children now manage his business interests. He then issued a sharp rebuke, saying, “You set a very bad tone. You’re hurting Australia very much,” and warned he would raise the issue with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
When Lyons attempted a follow-up, Trump signaled him to be silent, saying “quiet,” before moving on to another reporter.
Shortly after the exchange, ABC was told by the UK Prime Minister’s office that its place at a scheduled joint press conference between Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Chequers was withdrawn for “logistical reasons.” The broadcaster said there was “no indication” this was linked to the earlier confrontation. ABC remains accredited for Trump’s visit.
Lyons later defended his line of questioning, calling the idea that he had damaged diplomatic ties “absurd.” “It was a fair question, based on research, not aggressive or abusive,” he said.
Meanwhile, tensions between the US and Australia have grown in recent months, with Albanese pushing for a bilateral meeting following Trump’s early exit from the G20 and strained relations over the AUKUS submarine deal and new US tariffs on Australian exports. The two leaders are expected to meet next week at the UN General Assembly in New York.
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