Overview

• Presiding over the 80th General Debate, Annalena Baerbock urged member states to “be better,” pressed for reform, and set a cooperative tone after backing an independent, viable Palestinian state at a two‑state conference.
• President Donald Trump used his address to deride the UN as ineffective with “empty words” and “strongly worded letters,” touted a “golden age” for the U.S., and said he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize.
• On the Middle East, Trump rejected current moves to recognize a Palestinian state as rewarding Hamas, demanded the release of hostages, and on Ukraine called for an end to the bloodshed while urging Europe to halt Russian energy imports.
• The U.S. imposed tight movement and purchasing limits on Iran’s delegation, and the Secret Service said it dismantled a telecom network capable of disrupting New York communications ahead of the gathering.
• Western governments including France, the UK, Canada and Australia announced or affirmed recognition of Palestine in recent days, while Germany withheld recognition, pledged €30 million for the Palestinian Authority, and had Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul advance Berlin’s 2027/28 Security Council bid as Council meetings on Gaza and Ukraine proceeded.