Politics

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Politics

05 Nov, 2025

Trump Calls for Reduced Migration and Rejects Climate Policies in U.N. Address

Macario Yambao

US President Donald Trump delivered a combative address to the United Nations General Assembly, advocating for stricter global migration controls and rejecting prevailing climate change policies. The 56-minute speech, which revisited themes from his previous presidency, included sharp criticisms of world leaders and international institutions.

Trump emphasized the need to curb mass migration, highlighting the US immigration crackdown as a model. He asserted that uncontrolled migration threatens the stability of nations, declaring, "I'm really good at this stuff. Your countries are going to hell." This stance drew opposition from human rights advocates who describe migrants as individuals seeking improved living conditions.

On climate change, Trump dismissed it as a "con job" and called for a renewed reliance on fossil fuels, despite the scientific consensus on human-driven climate impacts. He warned, "Immigration and their suicidal energy ideas will be the death of Western Europe."

Regarding geopolitical issues, Trump criticized European allies for continuing Russian oil purchases amid the conflict in Ukraine and threatened to impose stringent US tariffs unless Europe adopts similar economic measures. "They're funding the war against themselves. Who the hell ever heard of that one?" he said, suggesting that a coordinated approach is necessary to pressure Moscow to end the war.

The president also opposed international support for establishing a Palestinian state during Israel's Gaza offensive, citing the potential benefits this could afford Hamas terrorists. He reiterated calls for a ceasefire tied to the return of hostages held by Palestinian militants and stressed the urgency to negotiate peace in Gaza.

Trump planned to meet later with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who continues to seek greater US assistance. He also intended to discuss Gaza's future in talks with Gulf leaders.

Throughout his address, Trump expressed frustration with the United Nations, criticizing its infrastructure and lack of backing for his conflict resolution efforts. "These are the two things I got from the United Nations - a bad escalator and a bad teleprompter," he quipped, recounting a near-fall by First Lady Melania Trump due to a malfunction.

The speech underscored Trump's continued divergence from international consensus on key issues including migration, climate policy, and the management of global conflicts.