In a passionate address at the United Nations, U.S. President Donald Trump criticized fundamental principles of the global body and advocated for Western nations to embrace policies similar to MAGA on migration and climate change. During his nearly hour-long speech at the UN General Assembly, Trump focused less on resolving the ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza and more on condemning immigration and green energy initiatives.
Trump denounced what he referred to as the “globalist migration agenda” and disapproved of efforts to combat what he labeled as “the global warming hoax.” Towards the end of his speech, he labeled the worldwide efforts against climate change as “the greatest con job ever perpetrated on the world,” a statement that elicited surprise from some attendees. Urging European leaders to take swift action, he emphasized the need to control the escalating immigration crisis and the perceived fabricated energy disaster before it becomes irreversible.
The White House had promised a speech at the UN targeting global institutions, but critics argue that Trump’s words struck at the core of the UN’s mission to enhance the lives of people worldwide. Dave Harden, a senior adviser during the Obama administration, expressed that the speech signifies a shift away from the U.S. as a beacon of hope for the international community.
While expectations were that Trump would criticize UN bureaucracy and spending, his most severe criticism of the organization centered on immigration. He blamed the UN for exacerbating what he labeled as “the crisis of uncontrolled migration,” accusing the body of providing aid to illegal immigrants to enter the U.S. via its southern border.
The U.S. President’s withdrawal of financial support from the UN and its agencies accelerated notably during his second term. Trump’s actions included plans to exit the World Health Organization and the Paris Agreement on climate change. Additionally, an executive order was signed to terminate U.S. involvement in the UN Human Rights Council and reassess U.S. contributions to global organizations. Congress proposed withholding over $1.4 billion in funding for UN dues and peacekeeping operations at Trump’s initiative.
The UN is now planning substantial budget cuts, including eliminating thousands of positions, largely due to Trump’s funding reductions. Experts warn that the administration’s approach may hinder the UN’s ability to provide humanitarian assistance effectively.
Trump’s speech focusing on migration and green energy while briefly mentioning conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine drew scrutiny from political commentators. Trump boasted of ending multiple wars, although observers noted minimal progress in resolving the Gaza and Ukraine conflicts. Critics emphasize that Trump’s strong personality alone is insufficient to bring about resolutions to these disputes.
