US walks out of UN Security Council meeting during France’s remarks over human rights criticism

US diplomats staged a walkout during a United Nations Security Council meeting on July 27, 2026, as France delivered remarks. The incident, which occurred during a session focused on Russia's war in Ukraine, stemmed from escalating tensions between the two allied nations over the reappointment of UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk. The United States had voted against Türk's second term, a move that drew sharp condemnation from France.

Days before the walkout, France's UN Mission in Geneva publicly criticized the US position, stating that the US was no longer a "beacon of human rights" and stood isolated alongside countries like North Korea and Russia. In response to France's address at the Security Council, US Deputy Ambassador Dan Negrea accused France of "disingenuous grandstanding" and "condescending and disrespectful rhetoric," affirming that the US would continue such protests until France altered its approach.

This diplomatic spat underscored broader disagreements between the US under the Trump administration and its European allies. US Ambassador Mike Waltz further criticized France, alleging it supported a human rights chief who "lectures free democracies" while aligning with "the world's worst oppressors." The US delegation maintained its stance as a global leader in liberty despite the criticism.