Donald Trump has rebuked questions from ABC America's Editor John Lyons, suggesting they were “hurting Australia" when speaking to reporters at the White House.

But the real "Easter egg" in the heated exchange was the US President seemingly confirming he would be meeting with Anthony Albanese "very soon" - the clearest indication to date the two leaders will meet.

But in a blow to the prime minister, a  much-touted defence treaty between Australia and PNG failed to get off the ground. So, is this just a momentary blip, or the sign of more challenges ahead in the region?

Brett Worthington and Claudia Long break it all down on Politics Now.

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