Waltz National Security Advicer:Trump
President-elect Donald Trump has chosen U.S. Representative Michael Waltz, a decorated war veteran and retired Army National Guard officer, to serve as his national security adviser. This decision comes despite concerns on Capitol Hill about Trump selecting members of the House, particularly with the final tally still uncertain and the potential need for new elections to fill vacant seats.
As national security adviser, Waltz will play a crucial role in addressing various pressing issues, including the ongoing support for Ukraine, growing concerns about the Russia-North Korea alliance, and persistent attacks by Iran proxies in the Middle East. He will also focus on brokering a cease-fire between Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah.
Waltz brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as a colonel in the National Guard and deploying to Afghanistan on multiple combat tours as a Reservist Army Special Forces soldier. He was awarded four Bronze Stars for his actions and later led a defense and intelligence consulting firm, Metis Solutions.
As a member of the Republican China Task Force, Waltz has been vocal about the need for the U.S. military to bolster its preparedness in the face of potential conflict in the Indo-Pacific region. He has also expressed support for Trump’s foreign policy methods, praising the president-elect’s tendency to challenge established norms.
Waltz’s appointment has sparked interest, given his reputation as a staunch China critic. In his book “Hard Truths: Think and Lead Like a Green Beret,” he outlined a comprehensive strategy for deterring aggression from China, including rapidly arming Taiwan, strengthening alliances with Pacific nations, and modernizing military assets.
As national security adviser, Waltz will coordinate U.S. foreign policy within the West Wing and brief the president on global developments. His views on Ukraine have evolved over time, initially pushing for increased support against Russian advances, but more recently calling for a reassessment of American objectives in the region.
Waltz’s background in defense policy and strong stances on China suggest a focus on addressing challenges in the Asia-Pacific region. His appointment puts him at the forefront of various national security crises, and his experience and expertise will be crucial in navigating these complex issues ¹.
