Self-obsessed? From peace promises to war rhetoric: Trump at the United Nations

By Vidya Bhushan Rawat* 

Donald Trump’s speech at the United Nations was among the most disappointing of its kind, making him appear delusional, self-obsessed, and dictatorial. It is ironic that leaders often labeled as “dictators” sometimes act with greater responsibility than such self-absorbed figures. Trump’s words suggested that he may turn reckless if global affairs do not move according to his will. Meanwhile, the military–industrial complex, which has long shaped U.S. foreign policy, remains powerful, and claims of its dismantling have proved illusory.

The world needs responsible leadership from powerful countries. In seeking to weaken others, America risks inflicting harm on itself—a process already underway. The consequences of narcissistic leadership affect every nation. Trump was elected partly on the promise of peace and of preventing escalation toward a global conflict, which many feared under Joe Biden’s administration. Yet, it is now evident that Washington aims to control global energy markets and sustain its economy through war-driven policies.

The Ukraine war could have been prevented if the U.S. and Europe had acted honestly and prioritized peace. Instead, their strategy appears to be to bleed Russia and fragment it—a goal Trump’s speech seemed to reinforce. To think Ukraine is winning is unrealistic; it is struggling even to mobilize enough fighters. For the U.S., however, the war sustains a profitable arms industry, with weapons sales to Europe ensuring the conflict drags on.

The Putin–Trump summit once raised hopes for reconciliation, but neither Moscow nor Washington will sacrifice national interests. Believing that Trump’s rise to power or symbolic meetings could resolve the crisis was always naïve. The American establishment has shown little interest in serious negotiations, focusing instead on manipulating events to serve its business and strategic interests. Unlike the Iraq War era—when Russia was weakened and China had yet to rise—today’s geopolitical reality is different. Russia is militarily resurgent, and China is an established global power. Moscow is pursuing its goals in Ukraine with determination, regardless of Western media narratives.

This war continues to distort the global economy. Trump’s open support for Ukraine and Europe ultimately benefits Russia, which will use the time to consolidate gains and annex more territory. His UN speech, rather than strengthening the U.S., risks further isolating it from the Global South, even as it cements ties with Europe. Yet, the belief that Russia or Vladimir Putin stand isolated is a misreading of global opinion. Despite Western efforts, Russia remains influential and respected in many parts of the world.

The world does not end because Washington or its allies refuse to recognize realities. Countries and people will chart their own paths. Such arrogance, embodied in Trump’s UN address, will only deepen the United States’ isolation in an international landscape that has already changed.

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*Human rights defender