Bolton resigns from U.N. post

WASHINGTON, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush said he has accepted the resignation of John Bolton, his controversial recess appointee as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations.

Bolton, in a letter addressed to the president, said: "After careful consideration, I have concluded that my service in your administration should end when the current recess appointment expires."

In a statement Monday, Bush expressed his regret for Bolton's exit and hailed the diplomat's tenure at the United Nations.

"He served his country with extraordinary dedication and skill, assembling coalitions that addressed some of the most consequential issues facing the international community," Bush said. "During his tenure, he articulately advocated the positions and values of the United States and advanced the expansion of democracy and liberty."

Bush criticized U.S. senators who failed to approve or reject Bolton, leading to the recess appointment.

"They chose to obstruct his confirmation, even though he enjoys majority support in the Senate, and even though their tactics will disrupt our diplomatic work at a sensitive and important time," the Bush statement said.