Henry Kissinger, the former US Secretary of State, passed away at 100. This well-known American diplomat passed away on Wednesday at his residence in Connecticut, as stated by his consulting firm, Kissinger Associates, Inc. The statement did not disclose the cause of death.
Serving as the secretary of state and national security adviser to Presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford, Kissinger played a pivotal behind-the-scenes role in constructing the framework that facilitated more manageable relations with the Soviet Union, China, and major Arab nations.
Simultaneously, he was closely linked to some of the most contentious U.S. foreign policy actions in recent decades, advocating for intense bombing campaigns in Southeast Asia and consistently overlooking human rights abuses by governments perceived to align with U.S. interests.
Although he did not directly serve under a U.S. president again after Ford left office, Kissinger’s impact endured. The current dynamics of U.S. superpower relations still reflect his influence, and he remained a highly sought-after voice on international affairs until the end of his life.
The awarding of the 1973 Nobel Peace Prize to Kissinger and North Vietnam’s Le Duc Tho marked one of the most contentious moments in the history of the accolade. Their recognition was based on their efforts in the Paris peace talks, intended to secure the withdrawal of U.S. troops, establish a ceasefire, and preserve the South Vietnamese government. The controversial decision led to two members of the Nobel committee resigning, and Le Duc Tho declined the prize, citing that their collaborative work had not yet achieved the goal of bringing about peace.
Kissinger passed away at his Connecticut residence, as announced by his geopolitical consulting firm, Kissinger Associates Inc. The statement did not provide details regarding the circumstances of his death. A private family service for his interment is planned, with a subsequent public memorial service scheduled to take place in New York City at a later date.
That was an almost inconceivable scenario for a diplomat who consistently regarded America as a leading figure in the global power dynamics. Kissinger is survived by his wife, Nancy Maginnes Kissinger, and two children from his initial marriage, Elizabeth and David.
Also read:
