Trump Criticizes Global Institutions in UN General Assembly Speech

Published: September-23-2025, 14:30, EDT

President Donald Trump used his speech at the United Nations General Assembly to underscore his foreign policy record and to argue that international institutions have weakened global stability. While highlighting his administration’s approach to ongoing conflicts and U.S. priorities abroad, Trump emphasized his “America First” agenda and questioned the effectiveness of multilateral organizations.

Trump’s Return to the United Nations

Speaking in New York, Trump addressed world leaders at a time of heightened global tensions. He argued that “globalist institutions have significantly decayed the world order,” a sentiment that has shaped his administration’s policies since his return to office.

Trump’s remarks built on his long-standing skepticism of multilateral bodies. Early in his second term, he ordered the U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization and ended participation in the U.N. Human Rights Council. He also directed a review of U.S. involvement in hundreds of international organizations to assess whether they align with his foreign policy priorities.

A Volatile Global Context

This year’s UN session comes at a turbulent moment, with conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan dominating the agenda. Leaders are also grappling with economic uncertainty, the implications of artificial intelligence, and concerns about Trump’s strained relationship with international institutions.

“By far the most stressed the U.N. system has ever been in its 80 years,” said Anjali K. Dayal, professor of international politics at Fordham University, highlighting the fragile state of global diplomacy.

U.S. Military Actions Raise Debate

Trump has faced scrutiny over his recent use of military force. In June, he ordered airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, followed by strikes this month on boats in the Caribbean suspected of drug smuggling.

Some lawmakers and human rights advocates criticized the latter operations, which reportedly resulted in fatalities, arguing that suspects should face legal proceedings rather than lethal force. Venezuelan officials have speculated that the strikes may signal U.S. support for regime change efforts targeting President Nicolás Maduro.

Meetings with Global Leaders

After his address, Trump scheduled one-on-one meetings with U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres and leaders from Ukraine, Argentina, and the European Union. He also convened a group discussion with officials from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan.

The White House said Trump aimed to showcase “the renewal of American strength around the world” and progress in efforts to resolve conflicts. His evening schedule included hosting a reception for more than 100 invited world leaders.

Gaza and Ukraine Conflicts Remain Central

The wars in Gaza and Ukraine featured prominently in discussions around Trump’s address. While Trump has campaigned on promises to end both conflicts quickly, tangible progress has been limited.

France’s recognition of Palestinian statehood earlier this week intensified debate at the UN, adding pressure on the U.S. and Israel, which oppose such moves. Trump has focused on negotiating a ceasefire to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, though challenges remain.

On Ukraine, Trump has pushed European nations to reduce their reliance on Russian oil while encouraging direct dialogue between Kyiv and Moscow. His June summit in Alaska with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was followed by calls for negotiations, but Russia has escalated its military actions since then.

Trump’s Nobel Peace Prize Ambitions

Despite criticism of his handling of current conflicts, Trump continues to link his foreign policy legacy to aspirations for a Nobel Peace Prize. He has claimed credit for mediating between nations including Israel and Iran, India and Pakistan, and Rwanda and the Democratic Congo.

Experts note that while his administration facilitated dialogue, the long-term outcomes remain uncertain. Still, Trump’s pursuit of global recognition may influence his rhetoric at international forums.

“His speech is going to be driven by how much he really believes he has a chance of getting a Nobel Peace Prize,” said Mark Montgomery of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. “If he thinks that’s possible, then he knows not to antagonize the U.N. unnecessarily.”