In a significant appointment, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump announced Congressman Mike Waltz as his choice for National Security Advisor, citing Waltz’s deep expertise on pressing global threats from China, Russia, Iran, and international terrorism. Trump expressed his confidence that Waltz, a retired Army Colonel and former Green Beret, brings the knowledge and experience needed to advance Trump’s “America First” foreign policy agenda.
“I am honoured to announce that Congressman Mike Waltz (R-FL) is hereby appointed to serve in my Cabinet as my National Security Advisor,” Trump stated on Tuesday. “Mike is a nationally recognised leader in national security, a bestselling author, and an expert on the threats posed by China, Russia, Iran, and global terrorism.” Trump went on to underscore Waltz’s commitment to a foreign policy that seeks “Peace through Strength.”
Representing Florida’s Sixth Congressional District, Waltz is a prominent figure in national defence circles, serving as a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee, the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. He is the first Green Beret elected to Congress, an accolade reflecting his unique military background and leadership abilities. With 27 years of service in the U.S. Army Special Forces, Waltz undertook multiple combat deployments to Afghanistan, the Middle East, and Africa, earning four Bronze Stars, including two with Valor, for his service.
Beyond the battlefield, Waltz’s career has spanned roles in the White House and the Pentagon, where he has been a strong advocate for national security and counterterrorism. Trump praised Waltz’s breadth of experience, noting that his career “epitomises the resilience and strength needed to tackle today’s global challenges.” As an Army Lieutenant, Waltz graduated from the rigorous Ranger School and was selected for the elite Green Berets, serving worldwide in challenging combat and intelligence assignments.
Upon receiving the appointment, Waltz expressed a profound sense of duty and responsibility, emphasising his commitment to defending American values, freedoms, and the security of its citizens. “There is no higher calling than defending the nation’s values, freedoms, and the safety of every American,” he remarked. “Together with President Trump and his team, we will confront the evolving challenges of today’s world and hold firm against those who would harm our way of life.”
Waltz outlined a vision for American leadership that balances alliance-building with a readiness to address adversaries directly. He affirmed that the U.S. would “keep its allies close” and “not be afraid to confront adversaries” while also investing in technological advances to ensure America’s strategic advantage. Waltz also stressed that America’s economic strength and energy dominance are key assets that enable the U.S. to avoid prolonged conflicts and “lead from a position of strength.”
In his statement, Waltz further emphasised his belief in the “America First Agenda,” underscoring that the nation’s continued leadership on the global stage depends on strong economic foundations and a robust defence posture. He also expressed optimism for the country’s future, asserting, “I fully believe that America’s best days are still ahead, and that with President Trump’s America First Agenda, we will secure our freedoms and forge a future where our nation remains the land of the free, and the land looked to for leadership and courage by the world.”
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The choice of Waltz as National Security Advisor marks a strategic decision in Trump’s administration, which has prioritised countering the influence of countries like China, Russia, and Iran. Under Waltz’s advisement, the administration is expected to continue its policy of assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, countering Chinese expansionism, and standing firm against Russian military actions and cyber threats. Waltz’s expertise on Iran also aligns with the administration’s stance on curtailing Iran’s nuclear ambitions and regional influence in the Middle East.
Waltz’s record has consistently shown a commitment to a security strategy that combines military readiness with economic leverage, a perspective he attributes to his experiences on the frontlines. His insights are likely to shape the administration’s approach to evolving global challenges, especially as it seeks to build stronger partnerships with allies while maintaining an independent course in foreign policy.
With his selection as National Security Advisor, Waltz will join a team focused on navigating complex international dynamics, reinforcing the U.S.’s strategic interests, and ensuring the nation’s preparedness for any emerging threats. As the world watches the upcoming administration, Waltz’s appointment signals a continuation of robust defence policies aimed at protecting American interests on the global stage.
