Waltz offered job in Riyadh, but he made unexpected choice - CBS
Photo: Former US President's National Security Advisor Mike Waltz (Getty Images)
Former US President Donald Trump's administration offered several diplomatic positions to Mike Waltz, who was fired as National Security Advisor, but he chose to work at the UN, according to CBS News.
According to sources, the White House offered Mike Waltz a new position on Thursday, May 1, after President Trump decided to remove him as National Security Advisor just over 100 days into his second term.
During discussions with Chief of Staff Suzy Wiles, Waltz was offered several diplomatic positions, including the post of Ambassador to Saudi Arabia. After some consideration, he chose to become the US Permanent Representative to the UN. President Trump announced the change via social media a few hours after news of the official’s resignation emerged on Thursday morning.
Waltz’s last day at the White House was scheduled for Friday, sources said, as Secretary of State Marco Rubio takes on dual roles - acting National Security Advisor and chief diplomat of the US. On Thursday, Rubio and Waltz met to discuss the transition.
Waltz's deputy, Alex Wong, remains at the National Security Council. There were discussions in the West Wing on Thursday about Wong's potential resignation, but for now, he is assisting with the transition of responsibilities.
President Trump views the Ambassador to Saudi Arabia position as extremely important and approaches the selection process very carefully, sources noted. He has consulted on candidates with several people, including former senior White House adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner.
It is unclear whether Trump will announce the name of the new ambassador before his Middle East tour, scheduled for May 13-16, which includes visits to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
In 2017, Trump chose Saudi Arabia as his first overseas trip as president. This oil-rich country is not only a leading producer in OPEC and a key player in the global economy, but also the largest buyer of American arms in the world.
Mike Waltz's dismissal
On Thursday, May 1, President Donald Trump dismissed Mike Waltz from his position as National Security Advisor.
The dismissal likely followed a scandal surrounding a secret chat between American officials on the Signal app, in which US strikes on Yemen were discussed.
According to media reports, Waltz’s position may be taken over by US President’s Domestic Security Advisor Stephen Miller.
