Trump Criticizes UN Over Escalator, Teleprompter Malfunctions at General Assembly

President Donald Trump encountered a malfunctioning escalator and a broken teleprompter upon his arrival at the United Nations General Assembly, which he used as a metaphor to criticize the UN's inefficiency. He joked about the escalator stopping, noting that First Lady Melania Trump, who was wearing heels, managed to navigate the stairs without falling, and quipped about the teleprompter operator being in "big trouble." Trump expressed frustration with the UN's lack of involvement in brokering peace deals, claiming to have ended seven wars without their assistance and questioning the organization's relevance and effectiveness. He also referenced a past bid to renovate the UN headquarters, which was not accepted. Trump’s remarks were part of a broader critique of global institutions and a promotion of his "America First" agenda, emphasizing American strength and skepticism toward globalist entities. His speech marked his first address to the General Assembly since returning to the presidency in 2025.