President Donald Trump has directed his administration to withdraw the United States from more than 60 international agencies, approximately half of which are affiliated with the United Nations, signaling a significant disengagement from the post-World War II global order. The move, initiated in early January 2026, has sparked international concern and debate about the future of multilateralism.

The Trump administration argues that U.S. membership in these organizations is detrimental to the nation's interests. The Secretary of State has characterized some of these organizations as "useless or wasteful," further justifying the withdrawal. The specific agencies targeted were not immediately disclosed, but the breadth of the order suggests a widespread reassessment of U.S. involvement in international affairs.

The United Nations responded to the U.S. decision by affirming its commitment to its global responsibilities. A UN statement emphasized that its dedication to delivering on its mandates would not waver despite the U.S. withdrawal.

Adolfo Franco, a Republican strategist and former advisor to U.S. Senator John McCain, suggested the move reflects a long-standing critique of international organizations within certain segments of American political thought. This perspective often views these bodies as inefficient, bureaucratic, or even as undermining U.S. sovereignty.

Conversely, Andrew Gilmour, former UN assistant secretary-general for human rights, expressed concern about the potential impact on global cooperation. He argued that U.S. disengagement could weaken international efforts to address critical issues such as climate change, human rights, and global health crises.

Matthew Duss, Executive VP of the Center for International Policy and a former foreign policy advisor to Senator Bernie Sanders, framed the decision as a continuation of a trend toward unilateralism in U.S. foreign policy. He suggested that this approach could alienate allies and ultimately undermine U.S. influence in the world.

The U.S. has historically played a central role in establishing and funding many international organizations following World War II, viewing them as essential tools for promoting peace, security, and economic development. This shift in policy raises questions about the future of U.S. leadership on the global stage and the potential for other nations to fill the void. The long-term consequences of this disengagement remain to be seen, but the immediate reaction has been one of apprehension and uncertainty among international partners.