Australian opposition leader Sussan Ley withdrew her call to remove Kevin Rudd as ambassador after backlash, with no changes expected despite Trump’s criticism.

Australian opposition leader Sussan Ley has withdrawn her call for Kevin Rudd to be removed as ambassador to the U.S., stating the decision is Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s to make. The reversal follows criticism from within her party, including Senator Jane Hume, who called the initial demand “churlish.” The controversy arose after President Trump reportedly told Rudd, “I don’t like you, and I probably never will,” during a White House meeting. Despite the awkward exchange, the meeting yielded progress on critical minerals and rare earths, with Albanese praising Rudd’s role. Rudd offered a private apology, which Trump accepted. No changes to Rudd’s position are expected.