“Matt is a strong warrior and loyal patriot, who will ensure that America’s interests are advanced and defended,” Trump said in a statement. “Matt will strengthen relationships with our NATO allies and stand firm in the face of threats to peace and stability – he will put AMERICA first. »

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Whitaker will likely play an enforcer role within NATO after Trump called on the organization’s members to increase their financial support. The president-elect also caused a stir by saying Russia could “do whatever it wants” to member states that fail to meet their financial obligations.

Trump also signaled that U.S. support for Ukraine as the battles against Russia could ease in a second administration. During the election campaign, Trump repeatedly said he wanted the battle between the two nations to end, but exact details on what would satisfy both Russia and Ukraine are scarce.

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If the United States significantly reduced its aid to Ukraine, European NATO members would have to step in to make up the shortfall, which would likely be insufficient. President Joe Biden recently authorized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to fire long-range military tactical missile systems (ATACMS) deep into Russia, in a move that could escalate the war.

Trump will likely expect Whitaker, a staunch ally, to pressure NATO members to help deescalate the war and ease the financial burden America is placing on the organization.

“I have full confidence in Matt’s ability to represent the United States with strength, integrity and unwavering dedication,” Trump continued in his statement. “I look forward to working closely with him as we continue to promote PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH, freedom and prosperity around the world.” »

Whitaker, 55, is the former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa, under President George W. Bush, and graduated from the University of Iowa with a BA, MBA and JD.

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He previously worked as acting attorney general between November 2018 and February 2019 during Trump’s first term. White House administration. Whitaker took over that role after former Attorney General Jeff Sessions was forced out. He was in charge of special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation into whether the Trump campaign worked with Russia during the 2016 election.

Despite fears of intervention, Whitaker allowed the investigation to continue.