Frank G. Wisner II, a respected American diplomat with a storied career, has passed away at the age of 86. Throughout his life, Wisner held ambassadorial positions in various countries, including Zambia, Egypt, the Philippines, and India, under both Republican and Democratic administrations. He was known for his engaging personality, hosting lavish dinner parties and navigating high-stakes diplomatic situations with ease.
Although he had retired from public service in 1997, Wisner continued to be involved in international affairs, including playing a role in the Kosovo independence talks in 2008. He also had a successful career in the private sector, serving as a vice chairman of A.I.G. and as an international affairs adviser for a Washington-based legal and lobbying group.
One notable incident in Wisner’s career was during the Arab Spring of 2011 when he was sent by President Obama to deliver a message to Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, urging him to step down. Wisner’s comments that suggested Mubarak should stay in power until the scheduled election months later were disavowed by the White House, leading to a public rebuke.
Despite this incident, Wisner remained unapologetic in his later years, expressing concerns about the U.S.’s use of power in global affairs, particularly in conflicts like Iraq and Afghanistan. He hoped that Americans would learn from past mistakes to be more cautious in wielding their influence internationally.
Wisner’s career was marked by his adept diplomacy, involvement in key historical events, and dedication to promoting American interests abroad. His passing represents the end of an era for American foreign policy in an ever-changing global landscape.
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