Trump replaces national security adviser McMaster

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US President Donald Trump has replaced national security adviser H.R. McMaster with hardline conservative and former UN ambassador John Bolton.

"I am pleased to announce that, effective 4/9/18, @AmbJohnBolton will be my new National Security Advisor," Trump said in a tweet on Thursday.

Trump twitter screenshot /CGTN Photo

"I am very thankful for the service of General H.R. McMaster who has done an outstanding job & will always remain my friend. There will be an official contact handover on 4/9."

McMaster, who had been the subject of exit speculation for months, had been expected to leave later this year.

The nomination of Bolton as his successor has shocked Washington.

A vocal advocate of the Iraq war, he has also advocated preemptive strikes against the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and war with Iran.

Former US Ambassador to the UN John Bolton speaking to the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) at National Harbor, Maryland, February 24, 2017. /VCG Photo

His appointment had been fiercely opposed by many within Trump's inner circle, most notably the coterie of military officers who have experienced the brutality of war firsthand.

McMaster, a three-star army general, had been expected to move out of the White House and into a four-star position.

Instead he will retire from public life.

National Security Adviser H. R. McMaster /VCG Photo

"After thirty-four years of service to our nation, I am requesting retirement from the US Army effective this summer after which I will leave public service," he said in a statement.

"Throughout my career it has been my greatest privilege to serve alongside extraordinary service members and dedicated civilians."

Source(s): AFP