Trump’s Return to U.N. General Assembly Amid Global Crises

World leaders will convene in New York next week for the 80th U.N. General Assembly, dominated by U.S. President Donald Trump’s return, the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, rising recognition of Palestinian statehood, and renewed nuclear tensions with Iran. Nearly 150 heads of state and ministers are set to speak during the high-profile six-day session, which U.N. chief Antonio Guterres described as unfolding in “uncharted waters” of global division, conflict, and climate threats.

Trump, now in his second term, will headline Tuesday’s opening speeches. His administration has slashed U.S. foreign aid, cut U.N. funding, and distanced itself from UNESCO, WHO, and the Paris climate accord. Despite criticizing multilateralism, Trump views the U.N. as having “great potential” and is expected to use the platform to highlight his achievements. Analysts suggest he may again press his case for a Nobel Peace Prize. He will also meet Guterres for the first time since returning to office.

The Gaza war remains central, with famine warnings intensifying as Israel expands its ground assault. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, wanted by the ICC for alleged war crimes, will address the Assembly Friday. Meanwhile, France and Saudi Arabia will host a summit Monday to revive a two-state solution. Several Western nations, including Britain, France, and Canada, have pledged recognition of a Palestinian state. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, denied a U.S. visa, will address the body via video.

Ukraine will also feature prominently, with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Russia’s Sergei Lavrov both scheduled to speak. At the same time, Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian will join last-minute talks to avert renewed U.N. sanctions. Guterres called the week “the World Cup of diplomacy,” with over 150 bilateral meetings planned.