Jessica Estepa

USA TODAY

As he asked Australians to keep faith in the U.S., Sen. John McCain acknowledged Tuesday that President Trump's actions have agitated both citizens and American allies.

"I realize that some of President Trump's actions and statements have unsettled America's friends," the Arizona Republican said, according to the Associated Press. "They have unsettled many Americans as well."

McCain continued: "There is real debate under way now in my country about what kind of role America should play in the world and, frankly, I don't know how this debate will play out. But I do believe – and I don't think I'm exaggerating here – that the future of the world will turn to a large extent on how this debate in America is resolved. That's why I and others are fighting so hard to ensure that America stands by our allies and remains an active, principled leader in the world."

His comments came during a speech organized by the United States Studies Centre. Per the Associated Press, he's in Australia to discuss security in the Asia Pacific-region. He has repeatedly criticized President Trump since Trump assumed office.