United States President Donald Trump announced plans to withdraw the U.S. from 66 United Nations and international organizations, according to a presidential memorandum released by the White House on Wednesday evening. The decision, Trump stated, followed a review determining which organizations, conventions, and treaties were contrary to U.S. interests.
The withdrawal encompasses major forums for international cooperation on issues ranging from climate change to peace and democracy. The changes will result in the cessation of U.S. participation in the affected entities and the termination of all associated funding.
The move comes as the international community grapples with pressing global challenges requiring multilateral solutions. The United Nations, established in 1945 in the aftermath of World War II, serves as a central platform for international dialogue and cooperation on issues of peace and security, economic development, and human rights. The U.S. has historically been a significant contributor to the UN system, both financially and politically.
The specific organizations targeted in the withdrawal were not immediately listed in the memorandum. However, the announcement has already drawn criticism from international leaders and advocacy groups who argue that U.S. disengagement weakens global efforts to address shared challenges. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential impact on climate action, conflict resolution, and the promotion of democratic values worldwide.
Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California, publicly criticized Trump's absence at the recent COP30 climate conference, underscoring the growing divide between the U.S. administration and international efforts to combat climate change.
The implications of the withdrawal are far-reaching, potentially affecting a wide range of international agreements and initiatives. The long-term consequences for global governance and international relations remain to be seen. The U.S. State Department has yet to release a detailed plan for implementing the withdrawal, and the timeline for the process remains unclear.
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