US Senate confirms Matt Whitaker as Trump’s ambassador to NATO

On April 1, the Senate confirmed Matt Whitaker as President Donald Trump’s ambassador to NATO, a key role at a time when the US's commitment to the Western alliance has been increasingly questioned.

Whitaker, who served in Trump’s first administration at the Justice Department, was confirmed by a 52-45 vote, marking a significant step in his career despite his limited background in foreign policy and national security, Caliber.Az reports via US media.

Unlike many prior nominees for such a position, Whitaker brings a law enforcement background rather than deep experience in diplomacy or military strategy. During his confirmation hearing, he reassured senators that the Trump administration’s commitment to NATO was "ironclad."

This commitment to NATO has been called into question by President Trump’s repeated criticisms of European allies and his favorable stance towards Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump's skepticism towards NATO has been a hallmark of his presidency, with frequent calls for European nations to increase their own defense spending rather than relying on US support.

Whitaker, who previously served as chief of staff to Attorney General Jeff Sessions, was appointed as acting attorney general after Sessions was fired following his recusal from the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 US election.

Though Whitaker had been a contender for the permanent position of Attorney General under Trump’s return to office, the president instead nominated him for the NATO ambassadorship.

In his nomination, Trump praised Whitaker, calling him "a strong warrior and loyal patriot" who would "ensure the United States’ interests are advanced and defended." As ambassador to NATO, Whitaker will now play a crucial role in navigating the US's relationships with its NATO allies, particularly amidst ongoing debates over defense spending and global security.