Sen. John McCain extends olive branch to Australia after President Trump’s insults
Feb 2, 2017, 10:38 AM | Updated: 1:38 pm
(AP Photo)
(AP Photo)
Cut-to-the chase Sen. John McCain of Arizona played unofficial diplomat for the president Thursday, trying to smooth over a potential fracture in relations with Australia after reports of a harsh call between the countries’ leaders.
“They fought alongside us in wars … This was … an unnecessary and frankly, harmful open dispute over an issue which is not nearly as important as United States-Australian cooperation,” McCain told CNN.
McCain’s office said he called Joe Hockey, Australia’s ambassador to the United States, to express his “unwavering support for the U.S.-Australia alliance.”
The Washington Post reported Trump cut short a phone call with Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull over a refugee resettlement deal.
Sen. John McCain calls President Trump's dispute with Australian PM Malcom Turnbull "unnecessary" and "harmful" https://t.co/x4Rwi2NF0c
— CNN Politics (@CNNPolitics) February 2, 2017
The publication reported that Trump told Turnbull he had spoken with a handful of world leaders that day and “this was the worst call by far.”
The Post also reported Trump accused Australia of trying to send the “next Boston bombers” to America.
Trump later tweeted the deal made between the countries with his predecessor, Barack Obama, was “dumb.”
Australia does not accept refugees who arrive by boat. The UK’s Guardian reported 1,250 refugees were living in detention camps off the coast.
America agreed to take some of the refugees.
