During US President Donald Trump’s recent address at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, he delivered a speech characterised by mockery, self-praise, and critiques of the UN’s effectiveness. He openly derided the United Nations, calling it ineffective in resolving conflicts, and boldly claimed responsibility for concluding seven “unendable” wars.
Trump’s rhetoric included audacious statements directed at other nations, insisting they will face dire consequences if they fail to manage migration issues, loftily stating, “Your countries are going to hell.” His tone was combative as he accused the UN of using merely “empty words” and failing to take decisive action against global conflicts, asserting he could have facilitated peace talks more effectively.
The speech began with technical glitches related to the teleprompter, which Trump spun into an opportunity to express himself more personally. Amidst several striking claims, he proclaimed the US as the “hottest country” and touted the economy under his leadership as the best in history, insisting that his achievements far surpassed those of his predecessor.
In a somewhat bizarre acknowledgment, he praised El Salvador for accepting deportees from the US, while simultaneously criticising the UN for its inadequate support in global affairs. Trump’s assertions were filled with hyperbole as he emphasised his supposed role in peace efforts, despite contentious evidence regarding the conflicts he mentioned.
He also made headlines for his stance on various global issues, posing questions about the UN’s purpose, suggesting that its potential is largely unfulfilled and, instead of writing letters, it should take actionable measures. His remarks extended to climate change, where he dismissed concerns as a “con job,” stating that political correctness was undermining effective governance.
Towards the end of his speech, Trump shifted focus to migration and energy issues, urging nations to abandon open-border policies and embrace traditional energy sources to restore greatness. He encapsulated his ideology by advocating for strong borders and a return to fossil fuels, labelling the global push for renewable energies as a misguided approach.
In concluding his address, Trump encouraged global leaders to follow the path of what he termed “Make America Great Again,” reinforcing his views on the relationship between immigration, energy policies, and the prosperity of nations. His performance evoked varied reactions, underscoring the contentious nature of his leadership style and policy stance on the world stage.