Global leaders will come together in New York in the coming days to address ongoing crises in the Middle East and Ukraine at the United Nations General Assembly. This meeting takes place as President Donald Trump returns to the UN podium for the second consecutive year, with issues such as the dangers posed by artificial intelligence also in the spotlight.
Challenges Facing the United Nations
Nearly 130 presidents and high-ranking officials are expected to attend this meeting. As the post-World War II order is under pressure, the United Nations is also striving to maintain its relevancy and withstand Trump's criticisms, which have focused on reducing U.S. financial contributions and withdrawing from several UN entities. Trump paid $725 million to the UN's regular budget this week, but still owes the organization over a billion dollars.
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Developments Related to the Middle East and Ukraine
The Middle East will once again be a focal point of discussions. The U.S. and Israel's war against Iran continues to contribute to rising global prices and instability in the region. Additionally, recent gains by Houthi groups pose a threat to shipping in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and could lead to increased energy prices. António Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, pointed to military challenges in Yemen, stating that past experiences have shown that military solutions are complex.
During this meeting, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will also speak. Zelensky is likely to address strengthening Ukraine's position ahead of a harsh winter. Guterres has also emphasized the impacts of this war on food security and energy prices, calling for solutions to facilitate exports from Ukraine and Russia through the Black Sea.
Meanwhile, Guterres, in contrast to Trump, who has called the dangers of artificial intelligence a "hoax," has stressed the importance of regulating and managing artificial intelligence. In 2023, the UN established an advisory body in this area, which includes members from the technology industry and government officials.
Additionally, during this meeting, Mahmoud Abbas, the President of Palestine, will speak virtually, as the United States has once again denied him a visa. In this context, Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, who is facing war crimes and crimes against humanity charges, will also address the assembly.
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