President Donald Trump addressed the United Nations General Assembly, urging member states to fulfill the organization's original mission of resolving international disputes peacefully. He criticized the U.N. for not meeting its founding mandate to maintain peace and security.
Trump highlighted that he had ended seven conflicts in his first seven months as president without involvement from the U.N. “What is the purpose of the United Nations?” he asked, acknowledging its “tremendous potential” but stating it is “not even coming close to living up to that potential.”
The president called for a ceasefire in Gaza and an end to the war in Ukraine. Addressing Hamas, he said, “Release the hostages now,” demanding all remaining hostages be freed at once.
On Ukraine, Trump criticized countries purchasing Russian oil, naming China and India as major contributors and reproaching European nations for acting against their principles through such purchases. “Cease all energy purchases from Russia,” he stated.
Trump also emphasized national sovereignty regarding border control: “Every sovereign nation must have the right to control their own borders.” He cited his administration’s actions against illegal immigration and efforts to reduce drug trafficking into the United States, including designating certain drug cartels and gangs like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua as foreign terrorist organizations.
Discussing economic security, Trump argued that global climate agreements harm economic development by pushing costly renewable energy solutions. He said these policies shift manufacturing away from developed countries: “The primary effect of these brutal green energy policies has not been to help the environment but to redistribute manufacturing and industrial activity from developed countries” that follow the rules.
He pointed to possible international cooperation through a verification system using artificial intelligence for enforcing biological weapons conventions and preventing dangerous research on bioweapons.
“Hopefully the UN can play a constructive role,” Trump said.
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary next year, Trump encouraged world leaders to honor their nations’ founders and protect traditions. He told those gathered: “Every leader in this beautiful hall today represents a rich culture, a noble history and a proud heritage that makes each nation majestic and unique, unlike anything else in human history or any other place on the face of the earth.”
He concluded with an appeal: “So, together, let us uphold our sacred duty to our people and to our citizens. Let us protect their borders; ensure their safety; preserve their cultures, treasure, and traditions; and fight, fight, fight for their precious dreams and their cherished freedoms.”