In brief
President Trump takes bold steps by signing an executive order to review U.S. funding and ties to the United Nations, igniting debates on America's global leadership role.
Trump signed an executive order on February 4, 2025, calling for a review of U.S. funding and involvement in the United Nations, raising questions about America's leadership position as the biggest donor. The president announced, "The U.N. has tremendous potential, but it's not living up to that potential right now." His actions included withdrawing the U.S. from the U.N.'s Human Rights Council and cutting funding to the U.N. agency that aids Palestinians, UNRWA. The order also ordered a reassessment of U.S. participation in UNESCO over claims of “anti-American bias,” citing his concerns about funding disparities with other countries.UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric responded by emphasizing that U.S. support has been vital for global security and expressed hope for continued collaboration with Trump. The U.N. has been preparing for this second term, noting the turbulent dynamics experienced during Trump’s first term in office.
