President Joe Biden has formally nominated the current US ambassador to NATO, Julianne Smith, for the position of undersecretary of state for political affairs. This key diplomatic role is involved in US efforts in Ukraine and the Middle East and has been vacant since late March following the departure of Victoria Nuland. Smith previously served as a senior advisor to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and has been instrumental in US efforts at NATO during Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Smith’s nomination is seen as crucial given the current state of global affairs, with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine testing NATO’s defensive alliance and prompting its expansion with Finland and Sweden joining in response. Smith’s nomination must be confirmed by the Senate, but some Republican senators have vowed to block all nominees in response to former President Donald Trump’s guilty verdict in a New York hush money case. The administration is urging those in support of Smith’s confirmation to reach out to these senators to expedite the process.
The Senate Foreign Relations Committee, responsible for the confirmation process, has expressed strong support for Smith’s nomination and is eager to advance her confirmation as soon as possible. Smith will continue in her role as US ambassador to NATO while awaiting confirmation, likely representing the US at the upcoming NATO summit in Washington, DC. Secretary Blinken has emphasized the importance of NATO’s role in supporting Ukraine and ensuring the alliance is prepared to meet current and future challenges.
The upcoming NATO summit will mark the alliance’s 75th anniversary and focus on ensuring NATO is equipped to address present and future challenges. Concrete steps to bring Ukraine closer to NATO and strengthen its defenses will be on the agenda. Smith’s experience in NATO and diplomatic affairs will be crucial in advancing US objectives at the summit and in supporting efforts to deter aggression and defend against threats. The Biden administration remains committed to strengthening partnerships with NATO allies and supporting Ukraine’s security and stability.
Smith’s nomination is part of the Biden administration’s efforts to reinvigorate the State Department and advance US interests on the global stage. With her experience and expertise in diplomatic affairs, Smith is well-positioned to navigate complex international challenges and represent US interests effectively. The Senate’s confirmation of Smith will be key in ensuring continued US leadership in diplomatic efforts and supporting allies in addressing global security threats. Smith’s appointment reflects the administration’s commitment to diplomacy and engagement with international partners to advance shared goals and values.
