US President Donald Trump delivered a combative address at the United Nations General Assembly, warning Russia of sweeping economic measures over the war in Ukraine while rejecting the global momentum toward recognition of a Palestinian state. It was Trump’s first UN speech since returning to power, and it underscored his “America First” posture that unsettles allies and opponents alike.
Trump declared the US ready to impose “a very strong round of powerful tariffs” on Moscow if it refused a deal to end the war, but insisted European nations must adopt identical measures for sanctions to succeed. He is set to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to press the matter further.
On Palestine, dozens of world leaders voiced support for statehood, but Trump doubled down on Israel’s position, calling recognition a “reward” for Hamas and demanding the release of hostages. He urged an immediate ceasefire-for-hostages deal in Gaza but offered no shift in US backing for Israel.
Trump also lashed out at migration policies worldwide, urging leaders to replicate his deportation agenda. He dismissed climate concerns, criticised the UN’s failures, and even mocked its infrastructure, recounting how he and Melania Trump were stranded on a broken escalator. His second term, marked by deep foreign aid cuts and tariffs, has redrawn America’s global role, fuelling doubts about Washington’s commitment to multilateralism.
