Who is Robert O’Brien? From hostage negotiator to Trump’s new top security adviser

John Bolton’s replacement announced at a time of heightened tension

Donald Trump and Robert O’Brien
US President Donald Trump waves next to new national security advisor Robert O’Brien yesterday at Los Angeles International Airport
(Image credit: AFP/Getty Images)

US President Donald Trump named the Department of State’s chief hostage negotiator, Robert O’Brien, as his new national security adviser on Wednesday.

O’Brien, who will be Trump’s fourth appointee to the role, replaces John Bolton, a notoriously hawkish hard-liner whose clashes with the president led to his abrupt dismissal on 10 September. He is said to be more affable and cooperative than his predecessor.

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William Gritten

William Gritten is a London-born, New York-based strategist and writer focusing on politics and international affairs.