US to Release UN Funding, But Demands Reform – A Sign of Shifting Global Power Dynamics?
The United States is preparing to release an initial payment towards the billions it owes the United Nations in the coming weeks, according to US Ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz. This move comes as the UN warned of “imminent financial insolvency” due to unpaid contributions, a significant portion of which are owed by Washington. However, the funding release is coupled with continued pressure for UN reforms.
The Scale of the Debt and the Budget Approval
As of early February 2026, the US owes over $2.19 billion for the regular UN budget, plus an additional $2.4 billion for past and current peacekeeping missions, and $43.6 million for UN tribunals. The UN General Assembly recently approved a $3.45 billion regular budget for 2026 after weeks of negotiation, covering operational costs worldwide.
Trump Administration’s Impact and the New Funding
The financial crisis at the UN coincides with a period of US retrenchment from multilateralism under President Donald Trump. US arrears to the UN have grown substantially during his presidency, building on a history of delayed payments. Waltz indicated the initial payment will be a “significant…down payment” on annual contributions, expected within weeks.
The recently signed US budget legislation allocates $3.1 billion for US contributions to the UN and other international organizations. Waltz clarified the funds will address both outstanding arrears and acknowledge ongoing reform efforts.
Beyond Financial Contributions: A Push for UN Reform
The US has not only withheld mandatory contributions but also drastically cut voluntary funding to UN agencies and initiated withdrawals from organizations like the World Health Organization. The administration is strongly supporting UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ UN80 reform initiative, though Waltz believes it doesn’t go far enough.
The focus is on returning the UN to its core functions of peace and security. A key goal is reducing duplication, citing the example of seven UN agencies focused on climate change. The US also supports consolidating logistics and back offices within humanitarian organizations.
“Tough Love” and Bureaucratic Efficiency
Waltz described the approach as “tough love,” arguing the current UN model is unsustainable for many countries. He emphasized the need for a more focused and efficient UN bureaucracy, stating it has “grown too large.”
Guterres launched UN80 reforms to cut costs and improve efficiency. The approved 2026 regular budget is approximately 7% lower than the 2025 budget. However, Guterres warned that the UN could run out of money by July due to a rule requiring the return of unspent contributions to member states, even if those contributions were never received.
Addressing Legal Discrepancies and Future Negotiations
US arrears for peacekeeping missions are partially attributed to a “legal discrepancy” between UN assessments and what US law allows for payment. This issue will be addressed in upcoming contribution negotiations, expected next year.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the main reason for the UN’s financial crisis? Unpaid contributions from member states, with the largest portion owed by the United States.
- What is the UN80 initiative? A reform initiative launched by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to cut costs and improve efficiency within the UN system.
- What is the US demanding in exchange for releasing funds? Continued and more substantial reforms to the UN’s structure and operations.
- How much money does the US owe the UN? Over $4.6 billion for the regular budget, peacekeeping missions, and UN tribunals.
Pro Tip: Staying informed about UN developments is crucial for understanding the evolving landscape of international relations. Regularly consult official UN websites and reputable news sources.
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