The US is acting with impunity and believes its power matters more than international law, the head of the UN has informed the BBC.
Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme, António Guterres noted Washington's 'clear conviction' that multilateral solutions are irrelevant.
What mattered, he continued, was the 'exercise of the power and influence of the United States and sometimes in this respect by the norms of international law.'
His remarks follow recent US actions in Venezuela and threats to annex Greenland made by former President Trump.
Guterres expressed that the foundational principles of the UN, including the equality of member states, are under threat.
President Trump has previously criticized the UN, claiming he resolved conflicts without its assistance and suggested he found the organization unhelpful.
Guterres recognized that his organization is struggling to enforce international laws and emphasized the need for reform to address major global challenges.
He noted that many believe the UN Security Council is ineffective and does not represent the world adequately, especially since permanent members can veto resolutions that may serve collective interests.
Guterres called for changes to the council's structure to regain legitimacy and limit veto powers to alleviate blockages in crucial matters.
In his closing remarks, Guterres expressed a desire for greater accountability, stating, 'If we do not confront the powerful, we will never be able to have a better world.'
