Trump-Putin Meeting: White House’ Press Secretary Faces Backlash Over Inapproperiate Response To Journalist

Abdullah Hussain (@Abdulla99267510) Published October 18, 2025 | 05:21 PM

Karoline Leavitt while addressing journalist says, “Your mom did,” a remark that quickly drew attention and was widely circulated across social and mainstream media platforms,”

WASHINGTON: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-Oct 18^th, 2025) White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt faced mounting criticism after delivering an unprofessional response to a reporter's question regarding a planned meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

President Trump and Putin recently held a detailed telephone conversation during which they agreed to meet in Budapest, the capital of Hungary. The call reportedly focused on diplomatic concerns, with both leaders expressing interest in direct talks.

During a press briefing at the White House earlier this week, a journalist asked Leavitt who had decided on Budapest as the location for the meeting. In response, Leavitt quipped, “Your mom did,” a remark that quickly drew attention and was widely circulated across social and mainstream media platforms.

When pressed further on whether her comment was intended as a joke, Leavitt responded by saying, “You’re a left-wing person who calls yourself a journalist.” She added, “It’s a joke to me because no one takes you seriously—not even your colleagues. Stop asking me ridiculous questions.”

The remarks have sparked criticism from journalists, media organizations, and political commentators, who called Leavitt's tone dismissive and inappropriate for someone holding a senior position at the White House.

Neither the White House nor Leavitt has issued an official apology or clarification as of this writing.

The incident comes amid increasing scrutiny over the tone and conduct of official communications from government representatives, particularly in politically sensitive contexts involving foreign relations.