Trump Reshuffles National Security Team, Nominates Mike Waltz as UN Ambassador
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump announced a significant reshuffling of his national security team on Thursday, nominating National Security Adviser Mike Waltz to serve as the United States Ambassador to the United Nations. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will temporarily fill Waltz’s role, a move reminiscent of historical precedents, including Henry Kissinger’s simultaneous tenure in both positions.
The changes come amid growing scrutiny of Waltz following a reporting incident involving The Atlantic, where he mistakenly included its editor-in-chief in a Signal chat discussing sensitive military operations. In a social media statement, Trump praised Waltz’s commitment to the nation and emphasized his belief that the administration would continue to fight for global safety.
Rubio’s dual role comes at a challenging time for the Trump administration, with ongoing foreign policy crises, including conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, Iran’s nuclear advancements, and economic uncertainties linked to ongoing trade wars. Despite Waltz’s nomination, questions about his judgment linger, with Senate Democrats, including Senator Chris Coons, hinting at a rigorous confirmation process.
The White House has backed Waltz through the controversies, insisting no classified information was compromised during the chat incident. Internal dynamics also have been turbulent, with loyalty tests being scrutinized, especially from figures like Laura Loomer, who urged for a purge of perceived disloyal aides.
As the administration considers various candidates for Waltz’s former position, potential nominees include envoys Steve Witkoff and Richard Grenell, although Witkoff has expressed reservations about taking on a more bureaucratic role. The upcoming changes illustrate the ongoing volatility within the national security apparatus, compounded by investigations into security protocol breaches involving Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
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