US walks out of UN Security Council meeting during France's speech

The US delegation walked out of a UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine on Monday, reacting to France's criticism of Washington's vote against extending the mandate of Volker Turk as UN human rights chief. Alternate US representative Dan Negrea said the US would return only when France renounces its 'condescending and disrespectful rhetoric,' calling France's remarks 'politicized drivel' and 'disingenuous grandstanding.'

The incident follows a tense weekend exchange on X between the two permanent Security Council members. France condemned the US for joining Russia, North Korea, and seven other countries in voting against a proposal to extend Turk's term by four years. US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz responded by accusing France of backing a human rights chief who he says criticizes democratic nations like the US and Israel while 'cozying up to the world's worst oppressors.'

The UN General Assembly on Friday voted overwhelmingly (144 in favor, 10 against, 13 abstentions) to extend Turk's term. Turk is an outspoken critic of Russia's war in Ukraine and Israel's conduct in Gaza, and has also called for investigations into deaths in US immigration custody. The extension was opposed by Russia, Israel, and others, with Washington threatening to reassess its funding and engagement.

The dispute over Turk's second term reflects deepening strains between the Trump administration and the United Nations. Washington has cut funding for UN agencies and withdrawn from dozens of UN entities. Rights groups say the human rights post is more critical than ever as autocracies gain influence. Deputy UN spokesperson Farhan Haq declined to comment on the walkout, adding that the UN expects all member states to respect the General Assembly's decision.