U.S. UN Ambassador Waltz blames Biden for Pentagon munitions shortfall, says forces have needed supplies

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz made a rare public rebuke of former President Joe Biden on Sunday, attributing the Pentagon’s reported shortages of munitions to the former administration’s policies. Speaking at a UN briefing, Waltz said that “a lot of stockpiles were depleted not only from what we gave” to allies but also from domestic production cuts that began during Biden’s term. He added that the depletion, while a concern, does not currently compromise the United States’ ability to conduct operations in the Middle East, specifically the ongoing conflict involving Iranian-backed forces.

Waltz emphasized that the low inventory levels do not negatively impact the war with Iran, stating that the U.S. still maintains sufficient reserves to support allied forces and to respond to escalations. He pointed out that the current stockpile levels are a result of long‑term budgetary decisions rather than an immediate operational shortfall. The ambassador’s comments come amid heightened scrutiny of U.S. defense spending and supply chain resilience, as the Department of Defense has faced criticism for its handling of munitions inventories in recent years.

The remarks underscore a growing debate over the impact of past administration policies on current defense readiness. While Waltz denied that the munitions shortfall is affecting the war effort, the statement highlights ongoing concerns about the U.S. military’s logistical preparedness in a region where tensions with Iran remain high. The U.S. government has not yet issued a formal response to the ambassador’s claims.