In a significant shake-up within the Trump administration, U.S. President Donald Trump has dismissed National Security Advisor Mike Walts, marking a major change as the president completes his first 100 days in office.
According to BBC, President Trump announced Walts’ removal on social media, thanking him for his service. He revealed that, temporarily, Secretary of State Marco Rubio would take on the additional role of National Security Advisor, continuing his duties as the United States’ top diplomat.
In a follow-up statement, President Trump nominated Mike Walts to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, signaling a shift in his role within the administration.
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Walts’ departure comes amid intense criticism over a scandal in which plans for attacks on Yemen were leaked on social media. The leak led to questions about Walts’ handling of sensitive national security information, which contributed to his removal from the role.
Reports had previously circulated that Walts was expected to resign soon, with White House sources indicating that his deputy, Alex Wong, would also step down.
On Tuesday, during a rally in Michigan, President Trump celebrated the completion of his first 100 days in office, claiming that his administration had achieved “unprecedented” success, despite polls showing mixed public approval.