Mike Waltz, a retired Army Green Beret and former U.S. National Security Advisor, faced scrutiny during his confirmation hearing for U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations on July 15, 2025, amid controversy over a Signal chat incident where he mistakenly added a journalist to a private military planning group.

This hearing marked Waltz's first appearance before lawmakers since his removal as national security adviser, with concerns raised over his accountability for past mistakes and the implications for U.S. diplomacy.

The U.N. is experiencing financial instability, with ongoing internal reforms, job cuts, and project consolidations, largely due to proposed funding reductions from the U.S., which is its largest donor.

Critics argue that these funding cuts threaten the effectiveness of the organization, which is already under scrutiny for inefficiency and challenges in fulfilling its peacekeeping and diplomatic missions.

Waltz emphasized the need to confront China's growing influence within the U.N., criticizing the organization’s handling of China and antisemitism, and pledged to review U.S. funding to U.N. initiatives to ensure taxpayer money is used effectively.

He also highlighted plans to address issues like deep-rooted antisemitism and to refocus the U.N. on its original peacemaking goals, aiming to restore a strong American voice at the organization.

Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen stressed the importance of U.S. engagement at the U.N. to counter China's influence, criticizing the Trump administration’s cuts to foreign aid and emphasizing the need for a strong American presence.

Waltz’s priorities align with Trump's foreign policy goals, which include reducing the size of the federal government and reshaping American diplomacy, amid ongoing debates about U.S. contributions and influence at the U.N.

The upcoming selection of a new U.N. Secretary-General in 2027 presents an opportunity for the Trump administration to influence the future direction of the organization.

Waltz has been engaging with senators from both parties to discuss strategies for strengthening alliances, countering Chinese influence, and addressing resolutions against Israel within the U.N.

During the hearing, Waltz emphasized the importance of reviewing U.S. funding to the U.N. to ensure it is used effectively and aligns with American interests.

U.S. officials are still reviewing Ukraine's request for military equipment, following a recent agreement for NATO support with defensive munitions, amid broader geopolitical tensions.