politicsconservative

U. S. Owes the UN: When Will the Money Arrive?

United Nations Headquarters, New York City, USATuesday, February 10, 2026
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The United Nations is waiting to hear when the United States will pay its overdue budget. The U.N. said it wants details on timing and amounts after Washington promised a first payment soon.

Key Players

  • Stephane Dujarric – U.N. spokesperson, relaying that the secretary‑general has been in talks with Ambassador Mike Waltz for a while.
  • Ambassador Mike Waltz – U.S. representative, who told Reuters that a “significant down payment” would come soon but is uncertain whether it covers last year’s or next year’s dues.
  • Antonio Guterres – Secretary‑General, warned that the organization could face “imminent financial collapse” if dues are not paid.

The Debt Breakdown

Category Amount
Regular budget (2026) $2.19 billion
Peacekeeping missions $2.4 billion
Tribunals $43.6 million
Last year’s budget $827 million
2026 budget (additional) $767 million
Earlier arrears unspecified

Over 95% of the unpaid bills come from the United States.

Context

  • Under former President Donald Trump, Washington pulled back from many international agreements and demanded cost cuts.
  • Only 55 countries have paid their shares of the U.N. regular budget before the February deadline; the rest await a clear plan from Washington.

Potential Consequences

If the U.S. does not settle its debts soon, the United Nations could face serious budget problems that would affect programs worldwide. The situation underscores how a single country’s financial decisions can ripple through global institutions, reminding everyone that cooperation and timely payments are essential for international stability.

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