In his address to the United Nations General Assembly on September 23, 2025, President Donald Trump delivered a forceful and combative speech. He sharply criticized immigration policies of various countries, insisted that climate change is the “greatest con job,” and warned that many nations are heading toward ruin under current energy and migration strategies.
Trump accused global efforts to promote green energy of damaging developed economies, and questioned the United Nations’ efficacy, calling its resolutions “empty words.” He also reproached European nations over their reliance on Russian energy, urging alignment with U.S. sanctions on Moscow.
On migration, Trump demanded nations close their borders and expel foreigners, asserting that unchecked immigration undermines national identity and sovereignty. He singled out European policies as especially pernicious, alleging that leaders have eroded their own culture by embracing open borders.
His remarks on the Ukraine conflict and Gaza were more perfunctory. He called for stronger sanctions on Russia, criticized allies who still buy Russian energy, and reaffirmed support for Israel, opposing recognition of a Palestinian state as rewarding terrorism.
Throughout much of the speech, Trump’s tone was confrontational. He lambasted the United Nations itself, mocking its machinery failures like a broken teleprompter and escalator, and questioned whether the organization has ever truly solved anything. At times, the address veered into digressions, including criticisms of other leaders and random policy assertions.
While the audience largely remained silent during his address, the speech is likely to provoke strong international reactions and intensify debates on migration, climate, and the role of multilateral institutions.
