Rwandan Journalist Faces Government Backlash for Critical Reporting
October 27, 2025
October 27, 2025 – USA/Malaysia –
During a press event in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, at the 47th ASEAN Summit, President Donald Trump visibly showed impatience with reporters, brushing aside questions and admonishing journalists by name. According to media coverage, Trump interrupted a reporter with “Who’s that shouting?” when she attempted to ask a question, and later said in a tone of frustration, “Don’t shout,” before shifting to praising Brazil and its president.
During the same encounter, Trump met with Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on the summit sidelines and handled questions about their bilateral discussions. He told the press there were “a lot of boring questions” and that some would be better addressed after the meeting between the two leaders.
The incident highlights the tension between the US president and journalists covering complex diplomatic engagements. Observers noted that Trump’s curt responses and visible irritation could signal a narrowing window for media access during high-stakes international gatherings.
While the summit agenda included peace talks between Cambodia and Thailand and broader US-China negotiations, coverage of the press-conference flare-up drew attention to the media’s role in such events. Some analysts view Trump’s reaction as symptomatic of his broader approach to the press, especially when confronted with questions he perceives as misaligned with his narrative.
For journalists covering major global summits, this episode serves as a reminder of the challenges of engaging in real time with leaders who may prioritize strategic messaging and diplomatic optics over press availability. The response from Trump may amplify concerns about press freedom and access during international summits where non-Western media are also present.
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