WASHINGTON, Nov 12: Donald Trump has picked Representative Mike Waltz, a retired Green Beret and staunch China critic, as his national security adviser, two insiders told Reuters.
Waltz, known for his loyalty to Trump, brings his military and political chops to a role that doesn’t require Senate confirmation.
He’s been vocal about China, arguing for U.S. readiness in the Indo-Pacific and pushing for quicker arming of Taiwan.
Waltz Served Under Rumsfeld & Gates
Waltz, who previously served as a defense policy director under Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates, has openly supported Trump’s hardline foreign policy stance.
Just this year, he praised Trump as “the disruptor” that Washington’s establishment needs.
China Hawk
Mr. Waltz is considered yet another China hawk in Trump’s closer circles.
Waltz suggests arming Taiwan significantly to equip it to be able to fight against the Chinese threat, as per his book which he published tilted “Hard Truths: Think and Lead Like a Green Beret”
Given his commander in chief’s soft corner for Putin, Waltz is expected to persuade Trump to take measures that will anger China in the coming years.
Advocate For Military Reforms
A long-time advocate for military reform, Waltz has criticized Pentagon leaders for lack of accountability and “political” agendas under Biden, including diversity and inclusion programs, even introducing a bill to audit such initiatives.
Known for pushing NATO allies to step up defense spending, Waltz aligns with Trump’s priorities, although he’s been less extreme about pulling out of NATO entirely.
Shifting Stance on Ukraine
On Ukraine, Waltz’s stance has shifted, recently questioning if U.S. resources are best spent there with growing Pacific tensions.
He supported the Biden administration’s initial support to Ukraine but changed his tone dramatically over the years.
“Is it in America’s interest, are we going to put in the time, the treasure, the resources that we need in the Pacific right now badly?” Waltz noted recently.
