U.S. News
Trump Demands UN Reform Before Paying Billions
Clear Facts
- The Trump administration plans to send an initial payment toward outstanding United Nations dues within weeks.
- U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Mike Waltz stated the payment is contingent upon reforms and rejected responsibility for the U.N.’s financial issues.
- The U.N. has agreed to reduce nearly 3,000 headquarters positions, cut its budget for the first time in 80 years, and decrease global peacekeeping forces by 25%.
The United States is preparing to address billions in overdue payments to the U.N., but the funding comes with clear demands for reform and accountability.
U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz emphasized that Americans have provided more funding to the U.N. than 180 other countries combined.
“The United States pays to the U.N. system more than 180 countries combined,” Waltz said.
He highlighted that under President Trump, there is a renewed insistence on meaningful change within the organization.
Pressure from the administration has led the U.N. to approve its first budget cut in eight decades and make plans to scale back unneeded staff and programs.
“We have historically been the largest supporter of the U.N., but under President Trump, we’re demanding reform.”
America currently owes about $2.19 billion for the U.N.’s regular budget, $2.4 billion for peacekeeping, and $43.6 million related to tribunals.
President Trump recently signed a bill setting aside $3.1 billion for these international obligations.
“You’ll certainly see an initial tranche of money very shortly,” Waltz told Reuters. “It’ll be a significant down payment on our annual dues.”
Waltz criticized the U.N.’s expanding bureaucracy, pointing out the growth in its budget has not equated to improved global peace.
“The U.N.’s budget has quadrupled in the last 25 years,” he said. “We haven’t seen a quadrupling of peace around the world. In fact, it’s gone the opposite direction.”
He also noted unnecessary duplication in U.N. agencies, mentioning that seven separate offices currently make climate change their main focus.
“Now, regardless of the climate change debate, we don’t need seven,” Waltz said.
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned the organization faces serious financial collapse if dues are not paid soon.
The Trump administration’s actions reflect a commitment to fiscal responsibility and ensuring American dollars promote efficiency, not waste.
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