In his latest speech, timed to coincide with annual plans before the end of his mandate, António Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, sharply criticized world leaders, claiming that they are "condemning international cooperation to death."
The UN Secretary-General noted that he is "deeply concerned about the brutal repression in Iran," adding that the global political situation is engulfed in "self-destructive geopolitical divisions and blatant violations of international law." These remarks were made as part of his annual report on priorities for the upcoming year, before he leaves his post at the end of 2026.
Guterres also expressed his concern about "total cuts in development and humanitarian funding," which is likely related to the reduction of UN agency budgets that occurred as a result of the "America First" policy during Donald Trump's presidency.
"These circumstances undermine the foundations of global cooperation and test the resilience of the multilateral system," he addressed the General Assembly. "While international cooperation is more necessary than ever, we seem to be the least inclined to utilize and invest in it. Some act as if they are striving to destroy international cooperation."
Guterres emphasized that the UN is "fully committed to the cause of peace in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, and beyond, tirelessly providing vital assistance to those in need."
The three major conflicts—in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan—have defined his tenure at the UN, and critics note that the organization has failed to effectively prevent or stop these wars.
At the same time, Donald Trump questioned the significance of the UN and criticized its priorities. The work of the Security Council, the UN's highest body, is paralyzed due to contradictions between the US, Russia, and China, which are its permanent members with veto power.
"At this moment, millions of people remain in brutal conditions of violence, hunger, and forced displacement," Guterres noted.
Speaking about the situation in Gaza, he called for ensuring "unimpeded flow" of humanitarian aid, and regarding Ukraine, he emphasized the need to "do everything possible" to end hostilities.
The Secretary-General also insisted on the necessity of resuming negotiations to achieve sustainable peace in Sudan and called for action against the abuse of artificial intelligence and efforts to combat inequality.
