The Global Story Trump asks: What’s the purpose of the UN?
Sep 24, 2025
A whirlwind of activity surrounds the 80th UN General Assembly as world leaders converge. President Trump questions the UN's relevance, claiming it’s merely symbolic. His surprising diplomatic successes and criticisms of immigration and green energy stir controversy. As tensions rise, discussions reveal how cuts in U.S. funding exacerbate the UN's challenges. In a striking twist, Trump tells Zelensky that Ukraine can reclaim lost territory, signaling a shift in his stance. The intricate balance of diplomacy unfolds amid chaos.
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UN Anniversary Amid Doubt
- The UN's 80th anniversary felt like a celebration shadowed by questions about effectiveness and finances.
- Asma Khalid described the event as a "party with a dysfunctional family" questioning the point of the gathering.
Press Scrum As Trump Arrived
- Asma Khalid joined a large scrum of reporters as Trump entered the UN and tried to ask him questions.
- She attempted to ask about funding cuts while other journalists shouted about Zelensky and Palestinians.
Escalator And Teleprompter As Metaphors
- Trump highlighted a broken escalator and teleprompter as metaphors for UN dysfunction.
- He used those failures to cast doubt on the institution's competence during his address.