Trump clashes with Australian journalist over business deals in office

September 17, 2025

During a press interaction, US President Donald Trump accused Australian journalist John Lyons of "hurting Australia" after being questioned about his wealth accumulation since returning to office. Trump responded that he didn't know about his financial status as his children handle the family businesses, then threatened to inform Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese about the journalist's questioning. The exchange comes amid strained US-Australia relations, including Trump's recently announced review of the Aukus submarine deal and implementation of tariffs on Australian exports.

Who is affected

Australian journalist John Lyons from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)
US President Donald Trump
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
Australia-US diplomatic relations
Australian exporters (affected by the 10% tariff on exports to the US)

What action is being taken

Trump is planning to meet with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese "very soon"
Albanese is traveling to the US for the UN General Assembly next week
Trump is hosting a reception on Tuesday night of next week
The Trump administration is conducting a review of the Aukus submarine deal
The ABC is investigating Trump's business dealings through their Four Corners program

Why it matters

The exchange highlights tension in US-Australia relations, which have become strained recently
Trump's administration has implemented a tariff of at least 10% on all Australian exports to the US, which Albanese characterized as "not the act of a friend"
The Aukus submarine deal worth £176bn ($239bn; A$368bn) between the US, UK and Australia is under review by the Trump administration
The incident illustrates Trump's approach to media questioning about his business interests
The exchange could potentially affect diplomatic relations between long-time allies

What's next

Albanese and Trump will meet in New York during the UN General Assembly
Trump is hosting a reception on Tuesday night of next week that Albanese will attend
Albanese and Trump will see each other at "various forums" taking place between now and the end of the year

Read full article from source: BBC