The United Nations said on Monday it is still waiting for precise information about when the United States will begin to clear its overdue contributions and the exact sizes of any payments.
At a regular briefing, U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said the organization had observed public statements and maintained communication with U.S. representatives. "Weve seen the statements, and frankly, the secretary-general has been in touch for quite some time on this issue with Ambassador (Mike) Waltz," he said. "Our (budget) controller has been in touch with the U.S.; indications were given. Were waiting to see exactly when payments will be made and in what amounts."
The remarks come after U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres raised urgent concerns in a January 28 letter to member states, warning that the 193-country organization is at risk of "imminent financial collapse" because of unpaid fees.
U.N. officials say the United States is responsible for more than 95% of outstanding dues toward the regular U.N. budget. The U.S. owed $2.19 billion by the start of February toward the regular budget, plus another $2.4 billion related to current and past peacekeeping missions and $43.6 million for U.N. tribunals, according to the figures cited by U.N. officials.
Those officials further detail that the United States did not make a contribution to the regular U.N. budget last year and therefore carries an $827 million balance for that year, as well as $767 million for 2026, with the rest of its total debt made up of arrears from earlier years.
U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz told Reuters on Friday that an initial payment would arrive shortly. "Youll certainly see an initial tranche of money very shortly," he said. "Itll be a significant ... down payment on our annual dues ... I dont believe that the ultimate figure is decided, but itll be in a matter of weeks."
When U.N. officials were asked whether forthcoming U.S. funds would be applied to last years outstanding charges, to 2026 obligations, or both, Waltz said the money would go "just in general, towards the arrears, and also in recognition of some of the reforms that weve seen."
As of last Friday, U.N. data showed that 55 countries had paid their contributions to the regular U.N. budget for the year before a February 8 due date.
In his letter, Secretary-General Guterres underscored the severity of the financial shortfall. U.N. staff and officials have emphasized the need for clarity from the United States on exact payment dates and the composition of any transfers so that budgetary planning and operations can proceed with more certainty.
Context maintained in official statements
The U.N. has continued outreach with U.S. representatives as it awaits clear confirmation of payment timing and amounts. U.S. officials have linked potential payments to recognition of some reforms, while U.N. authorities have stressed the scale of arrears and the operational pressures those arrears create.
The situation remains fluid as both sides continue discussions and as the organization monitors incoming payments and their designated allocation.