The Morning Edition Inside the Trump and Albanese meeting: two deals and a humiliation
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Oct 21, 2025 Michael Koziol, North America correspondent for The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald, shares his firsthand experience at the White House during the significant meeting between Anthony Albanese and Donald Trump. He recounts the tension as Trump criticized journalists and directed barbs at Ambassador Kevin Rudd. The discussion reveals whether Albanese made any gains, including insight into the rare earths framework and AUKUS, while addressing the challenges of US-China relations. Koziol also reflects on how Albanese's approach may be perceived back home.
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Journalist Publicly Rebuked By Trump
- Michael Koziol was publicly chastised by Donald Trump during the White House meeting but shrugged it off as typical Trump behavior.
- He still got his question answered after being called a "nasty guy," showing persistence pays in press settings.
Kevin Rudd Awkwardly Called Out
- Kevin Rudd was humiliated when Trump criticized an ambassador's past comments without realising Rudd was seated in front of him.
- Rudd awkwardly acknowledged it and apologised, with Albanese and others handling the moment calmly.
Rare Earths Deal Is Small Paper, Big Substance
- The rare earths framework signed is brief but backed by concrete projects and funding commitments from both countries.
- It signals Australia will be a key partner in diversifying critical-mineral processing away from China.