In a surprise move, US President Donald Trump on Thursday announced a significant reshuffle of his national security team, nominating current National Security Adviser Mike Waltz as the next US Ambassador to the United Nations. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will temporarily take over Waltz’s role while continuing his duties at the State Department.
The announcement comes shortly after reports emerged that Waltz and his deputy were leaving the administration. Waltz had been under intense scrutiny after he reportedly my mistake added the magazine’s editor-in-chief to a private Signal group chat discussing sensitive military operations.
“I am pleased to announce that I will be nominating Mike Waltz to be the next United States Ambassador to the United Nations. From his time in uniform on the battlefield, in Congress, and as my National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz has worked hard to put our Nation’s Interests first,” Trump posted on social media.
He added that Rubio would serve as interim national security adviser “while continuing his strong leadership” as Secretary of State. Trump invoked his signature slogan, promising to “Make America, and the World, SAFE AGAIN.”
Rubio will now be juggling both roles at a time when the administration is facing multiple foreign policy crises — including the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, heightened nuclear tensions with Iran, and economic uncertainty amid Trump’s escalating global tariff war.
UN nomination follows earlier setback, confirmation expected to be tough
Waltz’s nomination comes weeks after Trump withdrew Rep. Elise Stefanik’s name for the same post due to concerns about the GOP’s narrow House majority. Waltz, who said he was “deeply honoured” by the new role, will now require Senate confirmation — a process likely to spark contentious hearings.
Sen. Chris Coons, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, signalled that Waltz can expect a grilling over the Signal chat incident during his confirmation. Waltz had earlier admitted fault for creating the encrypted messaging group but denied knowing how journalist Jeffrey Goldberg was added to it.
Vice President JD Vance defended the transition, rejecting speculation that Waltz was forced out. “Donald Trump has fired a lot of people,” Vance said. “He doesn’t give them Senate-confirmed appointments afterwards.”
Several names in play for next NSA
Trump is reportedly considering several high-profile aides to eventually fill the national security adviser role permanently. Names being floated include special envoys Steve Witkoff and Richard Grenell, NSC counterterrorism chief Sebastian Gorka, and senior State Department official Michael Anton.
While Witkoff has played a major role in recent diplomatic negotiations, including talks on Ukraine, Gaza, and Iran, sources say he has little interest in the NSA role due to its bureaucratic demands. Grenell, meanwhile, has been active across Trump’s foreign policy and cultural portfolios and may be eyeing a run for California governor.
The reshuffle marks one of the most high-profile personnel changes in Trump’s post-presidency political operation, reflecting both internal tensions and preparations for a potential return to office.
(With inputs from AP)
Anurag Dhole is a seasoned journalist and content writer with a passion for delivering timely, accurate, and engaging stories. With over 8 years of experience in digital media, she covers a wide range of topics—from breaking news and politics to business insights and cultural trends. Jane's writing style blends clarity with depth, aiming to inform and inspire readers in a fast-paced media landscape. When she’s not chasing stories, she’s likely reading investigative features or exploring local cafés for her next writing spot.
- ANURAG DHOLEhttps://indiatadkha.com/author/bitlancetechhubgmail-com/
- ANURAG DHOLEhttps://indiatadkha.com/author/bitlancetechhubgmail-com/
- ANURAG DHOLEhttps://indiatadkha.com/author/bitlancetechhubgmail-com/
- ANURAG DHOLEhttps://indiatadkha.com/author/bitlancetechhubgmail-com/
