By Mark Tanos
The Trump administration will send an initial payment toward billions in overdue United Nations dues within weeks.
U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Mike Waltz told Fox News Digital the payment comes with strings attached. He rejected claims that America bears responsibility for the organization’s cash crisis.
“The United States pays to the U.N. system more than 180 countries combined,” Waltz said. “We have historically been the largest supporter of the U.N., but under President Trump, we’re demanding reform.”
Waltz said the administration’s pressure has already produced results. The U.N. agreed to cut nearly 3,000 headquarters positions and approved its first budget reduction in 80 years. The organization also plans to reduce global peacekeeping forces by 25%. (RELATED: ‘Adapt, Shrink Or Die’: Trump Admin Announces Major UN Aid Shake-Up)
The U.S. owes roughly $2.19 billion to the U.N.’s regular budget as of early February, according to Reuters. America also carries an additional $2.4 billion in unpaid peacekeeping assessments and $43.6 million for U.N. tribunals.
President Donald Trump signed a spending bill Feb. 3 that includes $3.1 billion for U.S. dues to the U.N. and other international organizations.
