Trump's pick for ambassador to Australia names three priorities for role
David Brat, nominated by Donald Trump as the ambassador to Australia, outlined his top priorities during his Senate confirmation hearing. He emphasized critical minerals, defense cooperation, and commercial diplomacy as key areas of focus. Brat's confirmation is expected to proceed despite some senators raising concerns about the AUKUS security pact and his previous stance on Ukraine funding.
- ▪David Brat was nominated by Trump for the ambassador role after a vacancy of nearly 18 months.
- ▪He highlighted critical minerals, defense cooperation, and commercial diplomacy as his main priorities.
- ▪Brat expressed support for the AUKUS security pact and addressed concerns regarding funding for Ukraine.
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Donald Trump's pick for ambassador to Australia, David Brat, questioned by US senatorsBy Brad Ryan in Washington DCTopic:Foreign AffairsThu 21 May 2026 at 5:27amThu 21 May 2026 at 5:27amThu 21 May 2026 at 5:27amDavid Brat was asked about AUKUS, Ukraine and critical minerals at the Senate confirmation hearing. (ABC News: Cameron Schwarz)abc.net.au/news/donald-trumps-ambassador-to-australia-david-brat-confirmation/106704042Link copiedShareShare articleDonald Trump's choice for ambassador to Australia has named his top three priorities for the role at a US Senate hearing to confirm his appointment.David Brat, a former Republican congressman, said his areas of focus would be critical minerals and commercial diplomacy, defence cooperation and partnership in the Indo-Pacific."Few countries are…
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