Washington: The United States has said it will continue pushing for reforms at the United Nations while also preparing to begin paying billions of dollars in outstanding dues.
Speaking to reporters, US Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, said Washington plans to make an initial payment within weeks. However, he did not provide a clear timeline or confirm the exact amount that will be paid first.
According to UN figures, the United States owes close to four billion dollars in unpaid contributions. This includes funding for the regular UN budget and peacekeeping operations. UN officials have expressed concern about the delay, warning that continued shortfalls could affect the organization’s work around the world.
UN Secretary General António Guterres has previously cautioned that the global body faces serious financial strain if major contributors do not pay their dues on time. The United Nations depends heavily on assessed contributions from member states to run its programs and maintain peacekeeping missions.
Ambassador Waltz said the United States wants to see structural reforms within the organization. He argued that the UN system needs to become more efficient, reduce duplication among agencies and ensure better use of funds. He said Washington believes financial responsibility should go hand in hand with accountability and reform.
The issue comes amid broader policy changes under President Donald J. Trump. The administration has reduced or withdrawn funding from some UN related bodies in recent years, including the World Health Organization and UNESCO. Officials say these decisions reflect concerns about effectiveness and national interest.
UN diplomats say they are waiting for clearer details from Washington about the size and timing of the planned payment. They stress that predictable funding is essential for humanitarian aid, development programs and peacekeeping operations across several conflict regions.
Despite tensions, both sides have indicated they want continued engagement. The United States remains the largest financial contributor to the United Nations, and its support is seen as crucial to the functioning of the global body.
For now, attention is focused on whether the promised payment will arrive soon and whether talks on reform will lead to concrete changes inside the organization.