Tillerson’s tough time

How allies became foes

Jan 23 2017

Mr Tillerson is nominated for the role of secretary of state by Mr Trump.

February 1

His appointment is narrowly approved in the Senate.

June 6

He announces that Mr Trump had asked him to “stabilise the relationship” with Russia.

July 20

Mr Tillerson reportedly calls the president a “moron”.

July 24

He is reportedly so offended by Mr Trump’s speech at the annual Boy Scout Jamboree, that he plans to resign. Mike Pence, the vice-president, and James Mattis, defence secretary, reportedly persuade him to stay.

October 1

Mr Trump tells Mr Tillerson he is “wasting his time”, a day after the diplomat revealed Washington was in communication with Pyongyang over North Korea’s nuclear arsenal.

November 28

Mr Tillerson is forced to deny reports that he is “hollowing out” the State Department after the Trump administration proposed the department’s budget be cut by 31 per cent

November 30

Multiple reports suggest Mr Tillerson is set to be replaced. Refusing to deny the reports, Mr Trump simply says “Rex is here.”