US Pays $160 Million of $4 Billion UN Debt

Trump promises more support for UN operations amid financial crisis

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The United States has paid about $160 million of the nearly $4 billion it owes the United Nations, with President Donald Trump promising more money to the financially strapped world organization. The UN has said the US owes $2.196 billion to its regular budget, including $767 million for this year, as well as $1.8 billion to a separate budget for UN peacekeeping operations.

Why it matters

The UN has warned it faces 'imminent financial collapse' unless member nations pay their dues, with the US accounting for 95% of the overdue payments to the UN's regular budget. Trump has been critical of the UN in the past, but now says his administration will be 'working very closely' with the organization and providing more financial support.

The details

The Trump administration's $160 million payment last week is earmarked for the UN's regular operating budget. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said cash for the regular budget could run out by July, which could dramatically affect UN operations. Trump convened the first meeting of the Board of Peace, a new initiative he says will 'almost be looking over the United Nations' and helping to strengthen it financially.

  • The US paid about $160 million to the UN last week.
  • The UN's regular budget dues were due on February 8, 2026.

The players

United Nations

The international organization founded in 1945 to promote global cooperation and prevent conflict.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who has been critical of the UN in the past but is now promising more financial support.

Antonio Guterres

The current Secretary-General of the United Nations who has warned the organization faces 'imminent financial collapse' without member dues.

Mike Waltz

The current US Ambassador to the United Nations.

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What they’re saying

“Someday, I won't be here — the United Nations will be.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States (CNBC TV18)

“They need help, and they need help moneywise. We're going to help them moneywise, and we're going to make sure the United Nations is viable.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States (CNBC TV18)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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