Recently, the United Nations reminded the United States about its massive unpaid contributions. The world body warned that failure to pay could cause “imminent financial collapse.”
“We’re waiting to see exactly when payments will be made and in what amount,” said UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric on Monday.
The United States owes the UN about $2.196 billion for its regular operating budget. This includes $767 million due this year. The US also owes $1.8 billion for UN peacekeeping operations. These numbers could rise if payments are further delayed.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned last week that the organization could run out of money unless all 193 member nations pay their dues or financial rules are changed.
Stay up-to-date with the latest news!
Subscribe and start recieving our daily emails.
The US has not paid any of its UN dues in 2025. Historically, it is the largest contributor to the organization. UN officials said 95% of the arrears for the regular budget come from the United States.
U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz spoke with Guterres about the dues. He said the Trump administration plans to make a “significant down payment” on its owed money in a matter of weeks.” The total amount, however, is still unknown.
The UN’s controller has also been in touch with U.S. officials about the payments.
Guterres said cash for the UN’s regular budget could run out by July. He added that this could affect the operations of the world body.
President Donald Trump has a history of criticizing the UN. His administration pulled out of several UN agencies, including the World Health Organization and UNESCO. Trump has called the UN a “con job” and questioned its ability to effectively address global issues.
The UN determines member contributions based on gross national income and income per capita. The United States normally pays the most, followed by China. Venezuela owes $38 million and has lost its right to vote for being two years behind.
Despite these requirements, approximately 60 countries had fulfilled their annual payment obligations by February 8.
Amid mounting concerns over unpaid dues, Dujarric added that Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has been in contact with U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz “for quite some time.”
The situation is critical. A prolonged delay in U.S. payments could trigger widespread disruptions across the United Nations, threatening peacekeeping missions and undermining the organization’s ability to carry out its daily operations.
Featured image via YouTube screengrab
