United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has formally reminded the United States of its financial obligations to the world body, following the Trump administration’s announcement of a withdrawal from dozens of UN-affiliated agencies. On Wednesday, the White House declared it was pulling out of 66 international bodies, approximately half linked to the UN, a move officials said aligns with a broader halt in funding for initiatives deemed contrary to U.S. national interests.
In response, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric stated unequivocally on Thursday that “Assessed contributions to the UN regular budget and peacekeeping budget, as approved by the General Assembly, are a legal obligation under the UN Charter for all member states, including the US.” He added that affected programs would persist, noting, “The UN has a responsibility to deliver for those who depend on us.”