Trump to address UN as he distances US from global cooperation

U.S. President Donald Trump is set to address the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, at a time when questions about America’s role in global affairs are mounting. Since beginning his second term, Trump has doubled down on his “America First” approach, cutting foreign aid, imposing tariffs on allies and rivals alike, and fostering unpredictable ties with Russia. His policies have unsettled traditional partners and fueled debate over whether Washington still intends to lead on issues of global security and diplomacy.

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The president’s speech comes as more than 150 world leaders gather in New York to debate international crises ranging from Gaza to Ukraine. The White House has yet to preview Trump’s remarks, but his appearance will be closely watched given the scale of challenges facing the international community. His administration’s sweeping aid cuts have strained humanitarian programs, prompting U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres to initiate cost-saving reforms while appealing for unity. Trump will be the second scheduled speaker, offering his vision for America’s global role just eight months into his second term.

The gathering unfolds against the backdrop of major geopolitical tensions. As the war in Gaza nears its second anniversary, dozens of countries have openly called for recognition of a Palestinian state, marking a diplomatic shift opposed by both Israel and the United States. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is due to speak on Friday, has rejected any such recognition while vowing to continue military operations against Hamas. Israel’s campaign has drawn global condemnation amid devastating civilian losses, with Palestinian health authorities reporting more than 65,000 deaths since 2023.

Alongside the Middle East conflict, the war in Ukraine will also dominate discussions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov are scheduled to address the Assembly, underscoring the deep divisions that persist over Russia’s invasion. Trump is expected to meet with Zelenskyy separately, and will also hold bilateral and multilateral meetings with leaders including Argentina’s Javier Milei and representatives from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey, and Jordan. These engagements highlight the delicate balancing act Trump faces as he champions U.S. priorities while distancing Washington from traditional multilateral cooperation.

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