Renowned diplomat Henry Kissinger, a pivotal figure in 20th-century foreign policy, passed away at the age of 100 on Wednesday, according to his firm.

Serving as U.S. ambassador to Bolivia, secretary of state, and national security adviser under Presidents Nixon and Ford, Kissinger remained influential even after leaving government in 1977.

In a recent interview weeks before his 100th birthday, Kissinger asserted his active engagement in global affairs, expressing confidence that world leaders like China’s Xi Jinping and Russia’s Vladimir Putin would readily take his calls.

While credited for “realpolitik” and secret diplomacy that improved U.S.-China relations, Kissinger faced controversy for alleged war crimes, including the bombing of Cambodia during the Vietnam War and support for Pakistan’s actions in Bangladesh.

Despite disagreements, President Biden acknowledged Kissinger’s “fierce intellect” and continued contributions to policy discussions, CBS News reported.

Born in Germany in 1923, Kissinger fled the Nazis, later becoming a U.S. Army interpreter and earning the Bronze Star for counterintelligence work.

His post-war journey included Harvard, government consultancy, and ultimately serving as both national security adviser and secretary of state simultaneously.

Kissinger’s diplomatic achievements include reshaping Cold War dynamics with outreach to the Soviet Union and China, leading to historic agreements.

However, his involvement in conflicts like Cambodia drew criticism. Despite controversy, Kissinger remained a fixture in foreign policy circles, advising presidents and offering insights into global events well into his late 90s.

Survived by his two children from his first marriage and his wife, Nancy, Kissinger’s passing prompted tributes from political figures, with President George W. Bush praising him as “one of the most dependable and distinctive voices on foreign affairs.”

Written by B.C. Begley