U.S. President Donald Trump announced a major staff reshuffle on Thursday, replacing National Security Advisor Mike Waltz following a controversy over leaked communications. Waltz, who faced scrutiny after inadvertently including an Atlantic magazine editor in a group chat detailing military operations, will be nominated as ambassador to the United Nations.
The move comes months after the "Signalgate" scandal revealed sensitive discussions about U.S. strikes on Yemen's Houthi rebels via the encrypted app Signal. Waltz, a former special forces officer and Florida congressman, had reportedly clashed with officials over his hawkish stance on Russia and Iran, conflicting with Trump's diplomatic outreach to both nations.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio will temporarily assume the national security advisor role. Meanwhile, pressure mounts on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who allegedly shared operational details in separate Signal groups, including one with his spouse. Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, demand accountability, while Trump dismisses the fallout as a "witch hunt."
Analysts suggest Trump's pivot toward Moscow and Tehran influenced the decision. Real estate magnate Steve Witkoff, tasked with leading U.S. negotiations with Russia and Iran, is rumored as a long-term replacement. Waltz's UN nomination requires Senate confirmation, ensuring continued scrutiny of the Signal leaks.
The reshuffle underscores ongoing tensions within the administration as Trump navigates global security challenges and domestic political crosswinds.
