Context:

The U.S. plans to make an initial payment towards its significant arrears to the United Nations, as highlighted by Ambassador Mike Waltz amid concerns raised by U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres about the organization facing financial collapse. With over $2.19 billion owed predominantly by the U.S., this payment is part of a broader effort to address unpaid dues and support ongoing U.N. reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing bureaucracy. Despite the commitment to pay, the U.S. has historically lagged on its financial responsibilities, particularly under the current administration, which has also curtailed voluntary contributions to various U.N. agencies. Looking ahead, discussions are ongoing to ensure that the U.N. adapts to modern needs while fulfilling its core missions more effectively.

Dive Deeper:

• The U.S. owes approximately $2.19 billion for the U.N. regular budget, alongside $2.4 billion for peacekeeping missions and $43.6 million for U.N. tribunals, with most of these debts accumulating during President Trump's tenure.

• Ambassador Waltz indicated that the upcoming payment would serve as a significant down payment on U.S. dues, emphasizing support for reforms proposed by Guterres, although he critiqued their timing and depth.

• The U.N. faces an imminent cash crisis, with warnings that it could run out of funds by July unless the financial structure and dues collection processes are overhauled.

• The approved budget for 2026 is $3.45 billion, which is slightly higher than proposed but lower than the previous year's budget, reflecting ongoing financial constraints within the U.N.

• Waltz highlighted the need for reducing duplicative efforts within the U.N. system, such as the existence of multiple agencies focused on climate change, indicating a push towards consolidation and more effective resource utilization.

• The U.S. has not fulfilled its regular budget payments for the previous year, accruing $827 million in unpaid dues, while also owing $767 million for 2026, contributing to a deepening financial gap for the U.N.

• Waltz mentioned that new negotiations regarding U.S. assessments are planned for next year to address discrepancies between U.N. assessments and U.S. legal constraints on payments.