Trump Picks Lawyer Matthew Whitaker As Nominee For NATO Ambassador

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has chosen lawyer Matthew Whitaker to be the Ambassador to NATO.

A Loyalist With Little Foreign Policy Experience

Notably, Trump has selected a loyalist with little foreign policy experience for what may be one of the highest-profile ambassadorships in his second administration.

Whitaker is the latest example of Trump choosing loyalists rather than people with proven subject-matter expertise.

Relations Between U.S. And NATO In Trump’s First Term

U.S. relations with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization were strained during Trump’s first term.

The Republican president had criticized NATO and accused European members of spending too little on defence.

On the campaign trail this year, he showed little sign of softening his posture.

In February, the former U.S. President said that he would encourage Russia to invade NATO countries that had not spent sufficient funds to defend themselves.

Making The Right Choice

Praising Whittaker, Trump said, “Matt is a strong warrior and loyal Patriot.”

Apart from this, he said that Matt will ensure the United States‘ interests are advanced and defended.

Matt will strengthen relationships with our NATO Allies, and stand firm in the face of threats to Peace and Stability – He will put AMERICA FIRST,” Trump said in a statement.

“I have full confidence in Matt’s ability to represent the United States with Strength, Integrity, and unwavering Dedication,” Trump said in a statement.

“I look forward to working closely with him as we continue to promote PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH, Freedom, and Prosperity around the World.”

Active Involvement In America First Policy Institute

Whitaker served as Acting Attorney General during Trump’s 2017-2021 term.

He has been actively involved with the America First Policy Institute, a right-leaning think tank.

Whitaker was known as one of the most outspoken critics of a special counsel investigation into contacts between Trump’s successful 2016 presidential campaign and Russian officials.

(With inputs from Reuters)