In a move raising eyebrows in diplomatic circles, President-elect Donald Trump has announced former Acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker as the next U.S. ambassador to NATO. The decision places Whitaker, whose experience lies in law enforcement rather than foreign policy, in a pivotal role within the Western alliance.
Trump, in a statement, described Whitaker as “a strong warrior and loyal Patriot” who will “strengthen relationships with our NATO Allies and stand firm in the face of threats to peace and stability.”
An Unconventional Choice
Whitaker’s appointment to NATO, a cornerstone of American foreign policy, diverges from the traditional selection of seasoned diplomats or military strategists for the role. His tenure in government included serving as acting attorney general from November 2018 to February 2019 during the conclusion of Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation into Russian election interference. Before that, Whitaker was chief of staff to then-Attorney General Jeff Sessions.
The NATO post is a particularly sensitive one, given Trump’s history of skepticism toward the alliance. As a candidate and later as president, Trump frequently criticized NATO allies for not meeting the benchmark of spending 2% of their GDP on defense, a commitment he viewed as essential. While Trump eventually endorsed NATO’s Article 5 mutual defense clause, his remarks about allies “not paying their bills” caused friction within the alliance.
Challenges for Whitaker
Whitaker steps into the role at a critical juncture for NATO, as member nations grapple with increasing threats from Russia following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. NATO reports indicate that the number of members meeting defense spending targets has risen, from three in 2014 to 18 in 2024, spurred in part by Trump’s pressure on allies.
However, Whitaker’s lack of foreign policy experience may invite scrutiny. Previous NATO ambassadors have typically been seasoned diplomats, former military leaders, or individuals with extensive national security expertise, such as former Ambassador Kay Bailey Hutchison and retired General Douglas Lute.
A Polarizing Figure
Whitaker’s tenure in public service has not been without controversy. He has faced questions about his involvement with World Patent Marketing Inc., a company accused of misleading consumers. An FBI investigation into the firm was disclosed in 2018, though Whitaker has denied knowledge of any fraudulent activities.
In addition to his legal career, Whitaker has been an outspoken critic of federal criminal cases against Trump, often appearing on Fox News to decry what he perceives as the politicization of the Justice Department.
Looking Ahead
Trump’s decision to appoint Whitaker underscores the president-elect’s continued preference for loyalists in key positions. Whether Whitaker can navigate the complexities of NATO diplomacy and reassure U.S. allies remains to be seen.
As the U.S. prepares for a new chapter in its relationship with NATO, Whitaker’s performance in this high-profile role will likely shape perceptions of American commitment to the alliance under Trump’s leadership.