Donald Trump used his address to the United Nations to lay bare his vision of the world, offering supporters a raw glimpse of “Trumpism” and critics an unrestrained critique of global institutions and allies.
Unlike six years ago, when his remarks drew laughter, this time the assembly responded with quiet attentiveness.
For almost an hour, Trump praised the United States, himself, and his achievements, claiming that the nation was enjoying a golden age and repeating his disputed assertion that he had personally ended seven wars, a feat he said warranted a Nobel Peace Prize.
Yet his speech quickly turned critical of the UN itself, which he accused of failing to support his peace-making efforts.
"The UN is supposed to stop invasions, not create them and not finance them," he said, highlighting what he saw as inefficiency and empty promises, even taking aim at a broken escalator and teleprompter during his visit.
Trump extended his criticism to Europe, targeting both migration policies and renewable energy initiatives. "Europe is in serious trouble. They have been invaded by a force of illegal aliens like nobody has ever seen before… Both the immigration and suicidal energy ideas will be the death of Western Europe," he warned, adding that green energy would drain European nations economically. He specifically called out the UK for new taxes on North Sea oil, urging, "If you don't get away from the green energy scam, your country is going to fail."
Underlying much of Trump’s critique was a cultural perspective, particularly regarding Europe’s heritage.
"I love Europe. I love the people of Europe. And I hate to see it being devastated by energy and immigration. This double-tailed monster destroys everything in its wake… you want to be politically correct and you are destroying your heritage," he said.
Similarly, he emphasized protecting religious freedom globally, highlighting the persecution of Christians: "Let us protect religious liberty, including for the most persecuted religion on the planet today – it's called Christianity."
On policy specifics, Trump warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ongoing war in Ukraine "is not making Russia look good" and stated that the US was ready "to impose a very strong round of powerful tariffs" to end the conflict.
He urged European countries to stop purchasing Russian energy, claiming he only recently discovered some were still doing so. While his comments singled out Europe, analysts note that larger buyers of Russian oil, such as India and China, were not mentioned.
Trump later used social media to suggest for the first time that Ukraine could regain all of its territory, calling Russia a "paper tiger" and downplaying its military strength.
Trump’s address blended defense of America, criticism of multilateralism, skepticism of global institutions, and sharp warnings to allies.
It was unapologetically assertive, filled with personal assessments, controversial claims, and sweeping cultural commentary.
Where once the audience laughed at his claims, this year they listened largely in silence. Trump concluded by underscoring his confidence in his approach: "I am really good at this stuff. Your countries are going to hell."
