Cindy McCain, 71, resigns as UN World Food Programme head in May 2026 due to health issues after a 2025 stroke.

Cindy McCain, 71, will step down as Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme in three months due to ongoing health issues following a mild stroke in October 2025. She cited her incomplete recovery as the reason for leaving the role, despite hoping to complete her term. McCain, who took office in April 2023 after serving as U.S. ambassador to UN food agencies, led global efforts to combat hunger amid conflicts and climate challenges. The WFP confirmed her resignation and will begin selecting a successor, with no replacement named yet.