UN Asks When US Will Pay Up
The United Nations is once again pressing the United States for overdue payments, confirming Monday that it is still waiting on concrete details about when — and how much — Washington plans to send to cover billions in unpaid obligations.
U.N. officials said they have received general assurances from the U.S. government but are still seeking clarity on the timing and size of the payments, which have become a major point of tension as President Donald Trump continues to demand accountability and reform at international institutions.
U.N. Warns of Financial Trouble as Payments Remain Unpaid
U.N. spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric told reporters that senior leadership has been in ongoing contact with U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz regarding the overdue funds. Budget officials, he said, have been given indications that payments are coming but have not received firm commitments.
The funding dispute intensified after U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned member nations in late January that the organization is facing a potential financial crisis due to unpaid dues. In a letter to member states, Guterres cautioned that cash shortages could disrupt U.N. operations if contributions are not received soon.
Trump Administration Pushes Cost Control and Accountability
Under President Trump, the United States has taken a tougher stance toward the United Nations, arguing that American taxpayers should not be expected to bankroll an organization that resists reform, wastes resources, and lacks transparency.
Ambassador Waltz said last week that the United States expects to send an initial payment in the near term, calling it a substantial first installment toward its yearly commitments. He noted that the total figure is still being worked out but stressed that discussions are moving forward.
Billions Owed as U.S. Foots the Majority of the Bill
According to U.N. budget data, the United States is responsible for more than 95 percent of unpaid contributions to the organization’s regular operating budget. As of early February, total U.S. obligations reportedly exceeded $2.19 billion for the core budget alone.
In addition, the U.S. owes roughly $2.4 billion for current and past peacekeeping missions, along with more than $43 million tied to U.N. tribunals.
Officials also acknowledge that the U.S. did not contribute to the regular budget last year, leaving an estimated $827 million unpaid, with another $767 million due for 2026. The remaining balance stems from arrears accumulated over prior years.
Payments Tied to Reform Efforts
When asked how upcoming payments would be applied, Waltz indicated the funds would go toward clearing past-due balances while also reflecting reforms already implemented by the U.N.
U.N. records show that fewer than one-third of the organization’s 193 member states paid their full regular budget contributions by the deadline — a statistic that critics say highlights why the U.S. is demanding financial discipline and structural change before committing more taxpayer money.
