US Senate Greenlights Julie Stufft for Ambassador Post in Kazakhstan in 51–47 Vote

The US Senate has confirmed Julie Stufft as the next US Ambassador to Kazakhstan in a close 51-47 vote.

A veteran diplomat, Stufft brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles as Deputy Chief of Mission at US embassies in Moldova and Djibouti, and postings in Russia, Ethiopia, and Poland, The Caspian Post informs via Kazakh media.

She holds degrees from Case Western Reserve University and Duke University, and speaks Russian, Romanian, French, and Polish.

In 2023, Stufft was honored with the Presidential Distinguished Service Award, the highest accolade for civilian federal employees. She also holds seven Superior Honor Awards and the American Foreign Service Association’s Award for Constructive Dissent by a Senior Officer.

During her confirmation hearing, Stufft emphasized her top priority will be the safety and security of all Americans in Kazakhstan, including embassy and consulate staff.

“If confirmed, my foremost priority will be ensuring the safety and security of all Americans in Kazakhstan,” she said.

Stufft also stressed the importance of strengthening economic ties with Kazakhstan, particularly in energy and critical minerals.

“We stand at the threshold of a new era in commercial and energy cooperation with Kazakhstan-a global leader in uranium production, a major oil exporter, and rich in critical mineral reserves,” she noted.

She plans to work closely with the Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs, the US International Development Finance Corporation, the Export-Import Bank of the US, and private sector partners to boost bilateral economic relations through investments in energy, technology, and infrastructure.

Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Steve Daines (R-MT) lauded Stufft’s extensive diplomatic experience and strongly supported her appointment.