Diplomats warn of deepening global crises as UN General Assembly convenes
World leaders arriving in New York for the UN General Assembly describe a planet beset by wars, economic strain and climate emergencies.
As the U.N. General Assembly opens in New York, diplomats portray a world in severe disarray, marked by two expanding wars, economic turbulence and accelerating climate impacts. António Guterres warned that institutions must adapt to a changing power landscape. Recent events include a U.S. operation that removed Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, a joint U.S.-Israel strike on Tehran that escalated regional fighting, and the protracted Russia-Ukraine war.
Health crises like Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, along with natural disasters in Venezuela, Colombia, Nepal and Tibet, underscore preparedness gaps. Former ambassador Robert Wood said the UN stands at a critical crossroads, while Slovenia’s foreign minister Tone Kajzer stressed the need for predictable international relations. Delegates aim to use the summit’s sidelines to address maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz and the governance of artificial intelligence.
Why it matters
The summit highlights how intertwined wars, economics and climate threats strain global cooperation.
How this story developed
- Sep 16 World leaders convene at UN as Middle East, Ukraine wars and AI risks dominate agenda
- Sep 17 Heads of state will gather in New York for the opening of the UN General Assembly’s 81st session, where they are expected to discuss artificial intelligence, ongoing wars and climate action.
- Sep 20 Brazil opened the floor and the United States spoke second, establishing the speaking order for the session.
- Sep 20 President Donald Trump asked President Volodimir Zelenski to stop attacks on Russian oil refineries, warning they raise diesel prices, as the two leaders prepare to meet in New York during the UN General Assembly.
- Sep 21 Guterres urged global cooperation on AI, inequality and conflict before departing.
- Sep 21 Zelensky announced plans for a high‑profile meeting with President Trump in New York.
- Sep 22 The UN secretary‑general race has narrowed to seven candidates after former Chilean president Michelle Bachelet withdrew.
- Sep 22 Macron scheduled private meetings with Trump at 17:35 and with Zelensky at 21:45 in New York during UN week.
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