Image: Ali Shaker/VOA, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
In a highly anticipated return to the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, U.S. President Donald Trump delivered a powerful speech in which he harshly criticized the international organization, questioned migration and climate change policies, and reaffirmed his vision of a global order centered on national sovereignty.
An hour of criticism and self-praise
Trump's speech lasted nearly 56 minutes, as he claimed that many countries—especially Europe—are "going to hell" if they don't abandon what he called suicidal immigration and green energy policies.
During his remarks, he noted that the UN "is not even coming close to living up to its potential" and questioned its role when, according to him, it offers "strong cards" but no effective action.
Yet, later, he assured Secretary-General António Guterres that, while he disagrees, he is “100% behind” the UN because of its “peacemaking” potential.
Migration and green energy: the preferred targets
The United States, Trump said, should serve as a model for immigration control: "If you enter illegally, you go to jail or you're sent back," he emphasized.
He also dismissed climate policies as a "greatest con job" and accused the energy transition of harming the economies of countries that support it.
Technical interruptions and ironies
At the beginning of his speech, Trump joked about a broken escalator at UN headquarters and a malfunctioning teleprompter, blaming the UN for the mishaps.
However, UN spokespersons explained that the staircase stopped working due to a safety mechanism activated by a cameraman from the US delegation. Regarding the teleprompter, they said it was under the responsibility of Trump's team.
The speech was met with polite applause, but also drew immediate criticism from diplomats. Furthermore, his statements on migration and climate change sparked concern among traditional allies.
Analysts agree that the message reinforces the nationalist "America First" stance of Trump's administration and strains relations with European countries focused on more open climate and immigration policies.
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