Bolton to stand down as US ambassador to UN within weeks

THE US ambassador to the UN, John Bolton, yesterday announced he will step down when his temporary appointment expires within weeks after he failed to win confirmation for his role from the Senate.

Bolton’s nomination has languished in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee for more than a year, blocked by Democrats and several Republicans.

Sen Lincoln Chafee, a moderate Republican who lost in the November 7 elections that swept Democrats to power in both houses of Congress, was adamantly opposed to Bolton.

Critics have questioned Bolton’s brusque style and whether he could be an effective public servant who could help bring reform to the UN.

US President George W Bush, in a statement, said he was “deeply disappointed that a handful of US senators prevented Ambassador Bolton from receiving the up or down vote he deserved in the Senate”.

He added: “They chose to obstruct his confirmation, even though he enjoys majority support in the Senate, and even though their tactics will disrupt our diplomatic work at a sensitive and important time,” Bush said.

In a letter to Mr Bush, dated last Friday, Bolton offered no reason for his decision.

“After careful consideration, I have concluded that my service in your administration should end when the current recess appoint expires,” Bolton wrote.

Sen John Kerry, a Democrat, said Bolton’s departure could be a turning point for the administration.

“With the Middle East on the verge of chaos and the nuclear threats from Iran and North Korea increasing, we need a United Nations ambassador who has the full support of Congress and can help rally the international community to tackle the serious threats we face,” Kerry said.

Bush gave Bolton the job temporarily in August 2005, while Congress was in recess.

Under that process, the appointment expires when Congress formally adjourns, no later than early January.