Kevin Rudd Quits US Ambassadorship to Rejoin Asia Society

Former Australian PM Kevin Rudd resigned in March 2025 from his post as ambassador to the United States to return to his previous role as president of the Asia Society, where he will head the Center for China Analysis. The move follows a year‑long term that was disrupted by his controversial rhetoric toward former US President Donald Trump and his outspoken critiques of the Trump administration, which strained bilateral ties. Rudd, who presided over the Asia Society’s China program, has been hailed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as one of the world’s leading experts on China‑US relations. His tenure saw him navigate AUKUS reviews, tariff negotiations, and the repatriation of Julian Assange, cementing his reputation as a hyper‑active diplomatic envoy.