DiscoverThe Global StoryTrump asks: What’s the purpose of the UN?
Trump asks: What’s the purpose of the UN?

Trump asks: What’s the purpose of the UN?

Update: 2025-09-24
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Heads of state and high-level diplomats have descended on New York to attend the 80th annual United Nations General Assembly. During a meandering address, President Trump railed against immigration and green energy, claimed credit for a spate of recent diplomatic victories, and questioned the legitimacy of the UN as an institution. How right is the president about the diminishing power of the UN? And what is his vision for a path forward?

Today, Asma reports from the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where she speaks to BBC Diplomatic Correspondent James Landale and BBC New York Correspondent for the United Nations Nada Tawfik.

Producers: Samantha Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin
Executive producer: Annie Brown
Sound engineer: Travis Evans
Editor: China Collins

(Photo: Donald Trump speaks during the general debate of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Credit: Sarah Yenesel/EPA/Shutterstock)

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Trump asks: What’s the purpose of the UN?

Trump asks: What’s the purpose of the UN?

BBC World Service