US President Donald Trump’s unusual complaints about a faulty escalator and teleprompter during his United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) speech have drawn a direct response from the UN.
Trump’s Complaint at UNGA
While addressing the UNGA, Trump said his escalator stopped mid-way and the teleprompter was not working. Jokingly, he remarked, “Whoever is running this is in big trouble,” sparking laughter in the hall. He further claimed that if the First Lady had not been fit, she might have fallen during the incident.
Despite the technical problems, Trump continued his address with notes until the teleprompter began functioning about 10 minutes later. He also used the moment to criticize the UN’s functioning, saying it often writes “strongly worded letters and then does nothing.”
UN’s Clarification
Responding to Trump’s remarks, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said the escalator malfunction was not the UN’s fault. He explained that a videographer from the US delegation may have accidentally activated the safety mechanism, which is designed to prevent accidents on escalators.
Additionally, a UN official, speaking on condition of anonymity, clarified that the teleprompter was managed by the White House team, not the UN.
UN’s Broader Context
The UN also highlighted that technical issues with elevators and escalators are not uncommon, especially amid recent financial constraints. The organization has faced shutdowns in New York and Geneva offices due to delays in payments, including contributions from the US—ironically its largest donor.
Trump’s Criticism of the UN
In his speech, Trump also claimed credit for negotiating ceasefires and agreements in conflict zones, while questioning why such efforts were not undertaken by the UN itself. He remarked that the UN has “enormous potential” but currently “just writes strongly worded letters and then does nothing.”
The exchange between Trump and the UN adds another layer of tension to their already complex relationship, spotlighting both the political and financial strains between Washington and the international body.
