UN fears funding cuts after Trump's victory

The UN conference room. Photo: Euronews

The United Nations has a sense of "déjà vu and some anxiety" over Donald Trump 's victory in the US presidential election. In particular, the UN fears a reduction in funding for its programs.

A senior Asian diplomat told Reuters.

UN fears consequences of Trump's victory

With Trump’s victory, the United Nations is preparing for potential cuts in U.S. funding for its programs and a possible reduction in U.S. engagement with global organizations.

"There is also some hope that the Trump administration will cooperate with the UN in some areas, even if it has to withdraw funding for some dossiers. After all, what could be a bigger and better global stage than the United Nations?" said the diplomat on condition of anonymity.

Reuters also noted that Trump has given few specifics on foreign policy for his second term. However, his supporters believe that the strength of his personality and his "peace through strength" approach can bend foreign leaders to his will.

In particular, he promised to end the war in Ukraine and to support Israel in the conflicts with Hamas and Hezbollah in Gaza and southern Lebanon.

"One of the main concerns at the UN is whether the United States will decide to reduce funding for the global organization and withdraw from key multinational institutions and agreements, including the World Health Organization and the Paris Climate Agreement," the article adds.

It is worth noting that funding from the United States has always been an important issue for the UN. Washington is the largest donor to the UN, accounting for 22% of the UN's core budget and 27% of the peacekeeping budget.

Earlier, we reported that the United States would support negotiations between Russia and Ukraine only if Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declares his readiness for them.

As a reminder, Trump has already made his first appointment: Susan Wiles will head the White House staff. This is the first time in US history for a woman to hold this position.