Transcript Shows Just How Awkward That Phone Call Was Between Trump And Turnbull

"I have had it"


Article heading image for Transcript Shows Just How Awkward That Phone Call Was Between Trump And Turnbull

Well how is this for an awkward phone call.

The full transcript of that phone call between President Donald trump and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull back in January has been leaked to the Washington Post, and it shows just how tense the convo was.

It started off ok, the pair chatting about mutual friend golfer Greg Norman "I guess our friend Greg Norman, he is doing very well?" Mr Trump asked. "He is a great mutual friend, yes," Mr Turnbull responded.

But it then went down hill when the PM pushed the President to accept the refugee deal that was struck with President Obama back in 2016.

Mr Trump said it was "a horrible deal, a disgusting deal", that would make him look like a "dope" and "a weak and ineffective leader", and he feared the refugees would turn into terrorists who would pull off San Bernardino or World Trade Centre-style terror attacks in the US.

But the PM continued to push, "I am asking you as a very good friend," Mr Turnbull said. "This is a big deal."It is really, really important to us that we maintain it."

Mr Turnbull explained the deal was for 1250 to 2000 refugees, but added Mr Trump in the end, after vetting, would not have to take any refugees. "You can decide to take 1000 or 100. It is entirely up to you," the PM said.

"The obligation is to only go through the process."

Mr Trump said the deal "is going to kill me" and "makes me look so bad".

The President wrapped up the hour long call after just 24 minutes, even saying his chat with Russian President Vladimir Putin was more pleasant than speaking with the PM.

"As far as I am concerned, that is enough Malcolm," Mr Trump said, ending the call. "I have had it"

"I have been making these calls all day and this is the most unpleasant call all day"

"Putin was a pleasant call".

Talk about awkward! 

4 August 2017




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