UNITED NATIONS: The United Nations is bracing for potential shifts in U.S. engagement and funding as Donald Trump’s re-election signals possible changes for global institutions. With a sense of “déjà vu,” diplomats at the UN anticipate possible funding cuts and reduced U.S. involvement under a second Trump administration.
Senior diplomats express both concern and hope, noting that while Trump’s transactional approach could cut funding, it may still engage the UN selectively, providing a prominent stage for diplomacy. China stands to benefit from any U.S. retreat, amplifying its influence in the international arena.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres and his team have been preparing for these potential changes, especially concerning budget cuts. During Trump’s previous term, the U.S. withdrew from several UN agencies and agreements, including the World Health Organization and the Paris climate accord, which Biden subsequently rejoined.
With the 2026 selection of Guterres’ successor approaching, Trump’s policies could shape the future of global cooperation at the UN. China, meanwhile, could position itself as a leader in multilateralism if the U.S. scales back further.
As the UN faces these challenges, diplomats across continents express both resilience and caution, recognizing the international implications of another Trump presidency.
