President Donald J. Trump has signed a Presidential Memorandum directing the withdrawal of the United States from 66 international organisations, including both non-United Nations entities and several UN-related bodies.
The memorandum calls for the cessation of U.S. participation and funding for 35 non-UN organisations and 31 UN entities that are seen as undermining national interests, security, economic prosperity, or sovereignty. This decision comes after Washington says it carried out a comprehensive review of U.S. membership in global organisations, treaties, and conventions.
The move reflects a clear commitment to protecting American taxpayers, ensuring their money is spent on domestic priorities.
Many of these international organisations have been criticised for promoting agendas that conflict with U.S. sovereignty, economic interests, and national security. The funding withdrawal targets bodies that have been deemed inefficient or ineffective in addressing issues of importance to the U.S. government and citizens.
President Trump has consistently advocated for reducing the influence of international organisations that he says interfere with the U.S.'s ability to make independent decisions. The latest pullbacks align with past actions, such as the withdrawal from the World Health Organisation and the Paris Climate Agreement, both of which he initiated upon his return to office.
In addition, his administration acted on day one by rejecting the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's (OECD) Global Tax Deal, and launched an investigation into tax rules abroad that may negatively impact American companies. Furthermore, President Trump withdrew the U.S. from the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and blocked future funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency for the Near East (UNRWA).
Through these actions, President Trump says he's directed the U.S. government to focus resources on domestic issues, such as infrastructure, military readiness, and border security, preventing, he says, foreign interference in U.S. economic activities. UN's Response
Secretary-General of the UN, Antonio Guteress has expressed regret over the withdrawal announcement. The UN emphasised that contributions to the regular and peacekeeping budgets are legally binding under the UN Charter for all member states, including the United States.
Despite the U.S. withdrawal, the UN affirmed that its agencies will continue implementing their mandates as prescribed by member states. The organisation stressed its commitment to fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to it by the international community, regardless of the U.S.'s decision to step back.
While this marks a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, the UN says it's determined to continue its work and carry out its mission with the full support of the other member states.
Tens of millions of Vietnamese were voting on Sunday (15 March) to elect members of parliament from a list of cand...
Top U.S. and Chinese economic officials began a new round of talks in Paris on Sunday (15 March) to res...
Kazakhstan is holding a nationwide referendum on a new draft Constitution on Sunday (15 March) that could significantly reshape the country’s...
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the test-launch of 12 600mm-calibre multiple rocket launchers on Satu...
French voters head to the polls on Sunday (15 March) to elect their mayors in a closely watched ballot seen as a t...
Top U.S. and Chinese economic officials began a new round of talks in Paris on Sunday (15 March) to resolve issues in their trade truce. The discussions aim to smooth the way for U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to Beijing to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping at the end of March.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief. Here are the top news stories for the 15 March, covering the latest developments you need to know.
Israel’s military says it has launched a wide‑scale wave of strikes targeting Iranian infrastructure in western Iran amid the intensifying U.S.‑Israeli war with Tehran. This live report tracks the latest developments.
The Academy Awards nominations have been announced, with the crime drama Sinners leading the race securing a record 16 nominations ahead of the ceremony set for 15 March. The event, which honours the film industry’s top achievements over the past year, will be hosted by comedian Conan O'Brien.
A long-running investigation has suggested that the street artist known as Banksy may be legally named David Jones. A report indicates that Jones was previously known as Robin Gunningham, a name long associated with Banksy, before legally changing his name several years ago.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued veiled threats to Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, and Hezbollah on Thursday (12 March), during his first press conference since the conflict with Iran began.
A widening conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel has triggered escalating military strikes across the Middle East, disrupted shipping through the strategic Strait of Hormuz and raised concerns over global energy supplies. This live report tracks the latest developments.
North Korea fired what appeared to be a ballistic missile on Saturday (14 March), Japanese and South Korean officials said. The development comes amid the joint annual U.S.-South Korea "Freedom Shield" military drills and South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok's visit to Washington.
Ukrainian drones struck an oil refinery and a key port in Russia’s southern Krasnodar region overnight (13-14 March), local authorities said, causing injuries and damage. In separate action, Russian air attacks on Ukrainian territory killed and wounded civilians near Kyiv, officials reported.
Tens of millions of Vietnamese were voting on Sunday (15 March) to elect members of parliament from a list of candidates almost exclusively fielded by the Communist Party, ensuring the party's continued overwhelming dominance.
Top U.S. and Chinese economic officials began a new round of talks in Paris on Sunday (15 March) to resolve issues in their trade truce. The discussions aim to smooth the way for U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to Beijing to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping at the end of March.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the test-launch of 12 600mm-calibre multiple rocket launchers on Saturday (14 March), state media KCNA said, after the United States and South Korea this week launched their annual large-scale military drills in South Korea.
French voters head to the polls on Sunday (15 March) to elect their mayors in a closely watched ballot seen as a test of the strength of the far-right and the resilience of mainstream parties ahead of next year's presidential vote.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief. Here are the top news stories for the 15 March, covering the latest developments you need to know.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment