UNITED NATIONS, Sep 23 – U.S. President Donald Trump delivered a fiery speech at the United Nations General Assembly on Sept 23, sending a clear warning to Russia over its war in Ukraine while reaffirming strong U.S. backing for Israel. In one of his most forceful foreign policy addresses since returning to office in January, Trump outlined a vision centered on economic pressure, resistance to Palestinian statehood, and tougher migration rules, signaling that his “America First” approach is still firmly intact.
Addressing dozens of world leaders, Trump urged allies to align with the United States on sanctions and tariffs aimed at isolating Moscow. At the same time, he dismissed international efforts to recognize a Palestinian state, instead pledging unwavering support for Israel and insisting that Hamas should not be rewarded for what he called “atrocities.” His remarks drew both applause and skepticism, underscoring the divisive nature of his renewed presidency.
Warning to Russia and Pressure on Allies
Trump’s strongest message of the day was directed at Russia. While he has repeatedly hinted at sanctions and economic measures since the war in Ukraine escalated, this time he proposed sweeping tariffs that he said could “end the bloodshed quickly.” According to Trump, these tariffs would be powerful enough to force Russian President Vladimir Putin to consider negotiations.
“If Russia refuses to reach a settlement to bring the war to an end, the United States stands ready to enforce a tough new set of tariffs that will be extremely powerful,” Trump stated. “But for these measures to succeed, European nations gathered here today must adopt the exact same policies.”
The U.S. president’s demand for Europe to stop purchasing Russian oil has been a recurring theme in recent months. Trump has signaled that without collective action, U.S. sanctions alone will have little effect. Later in the day, he planned a private meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to reinforce American support and coordinate strategy.
His speech comes at a time when many U.S. allies remain cautious, balancing their opposition to the war with the economic risks tied to cutting off Russian energy. Trump’s call for unity may push the debate forward, but divisions remain visible across Europe and beyond.
Backing Israel and Rejecting Palestinian Statehood
In another major section of his remarks, Trump addressed the conflict in Gaza and growing international recognition of Palestinian statehood. While dozens of leaders embraced the idea of Palestinian sovereignty, Trump took the opposite stance, standing firmly with Israel.
“Granting such recognition would hand Hamas an undeserved victory for their brutal actions,” he said, aligning himself with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s stance. Trump reiterated his call for a ceasefire-for-hostages deal, stressing that all remaining hostages, alive or dead, must be returned.
“We need to bring the Gaza war to an immediate halt and move quickly toward peace discussions,” he added.
By rejecting Palestinian statehood, Trump positioned the United States against a significant diplomatic shift taking place among global powers. His position is likely to resonate with Israel and its allies but could deepen tensions with nations that see recognition of Palestine as a path toward long-term peace.
Harsh Words on Migration
The U.S. president also turned to migration, urging other countries to adopt his hardline approach. Trump emphasized his record of deportations and arrests, arguing that illegal migration undermines sovereignty and stability.
“It’s destroying your country, and you have to do something about it on the world stage,” he told leaders.
The statement reflected Trump’s domestic agenda as well as his broader international vision. According to State Department planning documents, the administration intends to propose tighter rules on asylum this week. These changes could require asylum seekers to request protection in the first safe country they enter rather than choosing their preferred destination. If implemented, this would reshape a post-World War Two framework that has long guided humanitarian protection.
Criticism of the UN and Personal Jabs
In typical Trump fashion, his speech mixed serious policy pronouncements with personal anecdotes. He complained about the United Nations’ infrastructure, telling the audience that he and first lady Melania Trump were once stranded on a malfunctioning escalator in the building and that his teleprompter failed at the start of his address.
“What I seem to have received from the United Nations is a faulty escalator and a malfunctioning teleprompter,” Trump joked, noting that Melania almost tripped when the escalator suddenly stopped.
Such remarks drew laughter in the chamber, but they also highlighted Trump’s combative relationship with international institutions. Since regaining office, he has reduced foreign aid, imposed tariffs on allies and adversaries alike, and withdrawn U.S. participation from several UN organizations.
A Divisive Return to the World Stage
Eight months into his second term, Trump has reasserted himself on the world stage with bold promises and sharp criticism. His administration has been marked by deep cuts to humanitarian aid, raising concerns about the future of U.N. programs. At the same time, his pursuit of ceasefires and peace deals has produced limited progress.
More than 150 leaders are expected to address the General Assembly this week, but Trump’s appearance stood out for its confrontational tone. By blending threats of tariffs, unwavering support for Israel, and calls for tighter migration rules, he signaled a continuation of policies that disrupt global norms.
Trump is scheduled to meet UN Secretary-General António Guterres during the summit, marking their first formal encounter since Trump’s return to office. Whether this meeting will ease tensions between Washington and the United Nations remains uncertain.