Trump Says He’ll Speak With Australia About Trade Tariffs

President Donald Trump confirmed Tuesday that he plans to speak with Australian leaders about trade, following backlash over recent U.S. tariffs placed on Australian goods.

During a press conference at the White House, Trump responded to a question from 9News Australian correspondent Jonathan Kearsley, who asked whether the U.S. had been in communication with Australia regarding the tariffs.

On April 2, the U.S. imposed a 10% tariff on goods from Australia and many other countries — a move Trump dubbed “Liberation Day” for American consumers.

The decision drew sharp criticism from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who said that slapping tariffs on a close ally was not the action of a “friend.” He also noted that Australia had tried to reach out to the White House but received no response.

Asked about the lack of communication, Trump said: “They are calling and I will be talking to him. Yes.”

Trump did not clarify whether a conversation with the Australian prime minister would take place before or after Australia’s federal election this weekend. However, White House officials later indicated that the timing of Australia’s election wouldn’t affect ongoing discussions.

The comments come as Trump marks the first 100 days of his second term in office, with public approval ratings slipping. Fewer than 40% of Americans currently approve of his job performance, with even lower numbers on key issues like the economy and trade.

(With reporting from the Associated Press)