New Delhi: National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and his deputy, Alex Wong, are set to step down from their roles in the Trump administration, according to several individuals aware of the matter. Their exit is expected on Thursday, though the White House has not issued an official statement. The news was initially reported by journalist Mark Halperin.
Waltz has been under scrutiny since March, when he mistakenly added The Atlantic’s Jeffrey Goldberg to a Signal group chat meant for top national security officials. The chat reportedly included sensitive conversations about planned military strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, CBS news reported.
Classified leak controversy
Although Goldberg first withheld specific details, he later revealed information about the timing and weapon systems used in the planned strike, after key officials—including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, DNI Tulsi Gabbard, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe—stated no classified material had been shared.
Privately, Waltz acknowledged the accuracy of the reporting, leading to internal discussions about whether he should step down. However, he did not offer to resign, and former President Donald Trump opted not to demand it, instead expressing continued confidence in Waltz and describing him as “a good man” who had “learned a lesson.”
Exit framed as routine
An official familiar with the internal dynamics of the National Security Council noted that Trump now feels enough time has passed since the controversy, allowing Waltz and Wong’s departures to be portrayed as a routine part of administrative restructuring. The former president reportedly resisted dismissing Waltz earlier to avoid appearing swayed by public criticism.
Alex Wong previously held prominent roles in the first Trump term, including deputy assistant secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs and deputy special representative for North Korea. He played a key part in the lead-up to Trump’s historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
