'The US used to be a beacon of human rights. Under the post, the UN human rights chief is expected to call out abuses by member states, including powerful ones. He added: 'The United States will immediately reassess our engagement, participation, and funding', signalling that future US financial contributions are under review. Washington walked out during a French speech after a dispute over the re-election of the UN human rights chief, sparking a public war of words between the allies. Negrea added: 'it is the United States that remains the beacon of liberty for the world' and described France's criticism as 'politicized drivel'.