Senior Advisor to Trump Indicates Time is Running Out for Rudd as Ambassador

Dan Scavino, a senior advisor to President-elect Donald Trump, recently shared a mysterious GIF on social media aimed at Australian Ambassador to the U.S., Kevin Rudd.

The GIF features sand flowing through an hourglass, paired with Rudd’s commentary on Trump’s recent electoral success, seemingly implying that Rudd’s tenure may be in jeopardy.

This enigmatic response has sparked speculation about Rudd’s future in light of Trump’s upcoming return to the White House in January.

This development follows Rudd’s previous outspoken criticisms of Trump, which resurfaced after Trump’s victory.

Rudd had previously labeled Trump as “the most destructive president in history,” a “traitor to the West,” and a “village idiot” on social media.

Following Trump’s win, these comments mysteriously disappeared from his account.

Scavino, a close associate of Trump and his former golf caddie, who worked closely with him in the West Wing, is expected to maintain influence within the administration.

Criticisms and Diplomatic Tensions

Former White House press secretary Sean Spicer issued a warning, stating that “Trump doesn’t forget these remarks,” during an interview with Sky News.

In response to Rudd’s criticisms, Trump himself told UK parliament member Nigel Farage, “If he shows any hostility, he won’t last long.”

While some Australian officials have expressed their support for Rudd, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Coalition leaders have publicly backed him. Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott emphasized that any changes in Rudd’s position should not be due to pressure from the United States.

“I believe that Kevin is currently doing a commendable job,” Abbott mentioned in a podcast with the Institute of Public Affairs. He acknowledged Rudd’s efforts to mend fences and noted that Rudd will work hard to gain the trust of senior officials in the incoming administration.

He also emphasized the importance of being more cautious in the future when commenting on U.S. presidents or former U.S. presidents.

“I have always believed that the American president serves as the leader of the free world. In essence, he is also our president alongside being the American president. Therefore, we must be prudent and refrain from making public criticisms of an American president or a former American president,” he explained.

Calls for Diplomatic Unity and Concerns Over Trade Tariffs

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton and Deputy Leader Sussan Ley have also voiced their support for Rudd’s role as ambassador, highlighting the significance of maintaining strong diplomatic ties with the U.S.

“When he performs well in his role as our ambassador, Australia benefits greatly in our relationship with the United States,” stated Ley in an interview with ABC news.

Former Ambassador Joe Hockey referenced Trump’s “forgive but don’t forget” approach and echoed the sentiment that Rudd has been actively working to build relationships with officials who will serve in Trump’s administration, a crucial step in advancing Australia’s interests.