New Zealand Envoy Dismissed After Controversial Trump Remarks

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — New Zealand’s Foreign Minister announced the dismissal of Phil Goff, the country’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, following controversial remarks he made about U.S. President Donald Trump at a London event this week.

During an event hosted by the international affairs think tank Chatham House, Goff posed a question to Finland’s Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto regarding Trump’s understanding of history. Referencing a famous 1938 speech by Winston Churchill, Goff asked, “President Trump has restored the bust of Churchill to the Oval Office. But do you think he really understands history?” This comment elicited laughter from the audience.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters described Goff’s remarks as “disappointing” and stated they rendered his position “untenable.” Peters emphasized, “When you are in that position, you represent the government and the policies of the day. You’re not able to free think; you are the face of New Zealand.”

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon expressed his support for Peters’ decision to dismiss Goff. Officials confirmed they are in discussions with Goff regarding his return to New Zealand.

Goff, who took up his role in January 2023, did not immediately comment on his dismissal. Peters noted that officials would work through the upcoming leadership transition at New Zealand’s mission in London.

Former Prime Minister Helen Clark criticized the decision on social media, calling Goff a “highly respected” former foreign minister and describing the situation as a “thin excuse” for his removal.

The event that precipitated Goff’s dismissal focused on Finland’s approach to European security, amidst ongoing discussions about NATO’s relationship with Russia.