UN chief regrets U.S. decision to withdraw from international organisations

UN chief regrets U.S. decision to withdraw from international organisations
Antonio Guterres attends the 15th ASEAN - United Nations (UN) Summit, as part of the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia October 27, 2025.
Reuters

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed regret on Thursday over the decision by the Trump administration to withdraw from 31 entities linked to the United Nations.

“The Secretary-General regrets the announcement by the White House regarding the United States’ decision to withdraw from a number of United Nations entities,” UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said.

The announcement followed a presidential memorandum signed by U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday (7 January) directing federal agencies to withdraw from 66 international organisations the administration said no longer serve U.S. interests.

Dujarric emphasised that assessed contributions to the UN’s regular and peacekeeping budgets remain a legal obligation under the UN Charter for all member states, including the United States.

He added that “all United Nations entities will continue implementing their mandates as given by member states” and reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to delivering services for those who depend on it.

“We will continue to carry out our mandates with determination,” the statement said.

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