Lyons attempted to ask another question about a $US2 billion deal between the United Arab Emirates’ ruling family and World Liberty Financial, a crypto company set up by the Trumps and the family of Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff.
The president moved on to another reporter, pointed a finger at Lyons and told him: “Quiet.”
Lyons is a veteran journalist and foreign correspondent who has held senior roles across print and television at The Sydney Morning Herald, News Corp, Nine and the ABC. He was asking questions for an ABC Four Corners investigation into the business activities of Trump and his family since returning to office.
The intense exchange, and Trump’s threat to the bilateral relationship, comes just days before Albanese is due to arrive in the US for the opening session of the United Nations General Assembly and a long-awaited meeting with Trump, which the president seemed to confirm.
Both sides have indicated schedules are still in play. Trump will now travel to Arizona on Sunday for the funeral of assassinated conservative activist Charlie Kirk, while the president’s diary in New York is still being finalised.
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While details have not been announced, Albanese told Perth radio on Monday: “We’ll see each other in New York. He [Trump] is hosting a reception on Tuesday night of next week. And as well, we’ll see each other at various forums that are taking place between now and the end of the year. It’s summit season.”
Lyons declined to comment. The White House was contacted for comment.
Trump was bound for the United Kingdom, where he will be honoured with a state visit, including a full day of ceremony at Windsor Castle with the royal family, and talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
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