In a candid interview with the BBC, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres accused the United States of acting with impunity and valuing its power above international law, warning that multilateral solutions are being sidelined. His remarks, delivered on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, underscore a deepening rift between the UN and the US administration, with implications for global governance and conflict resolution.
Guterres specifically cited recent US actions, including the strike on Venezuela and the seizure of its president, as evidence of Washington’s disregard for international norms. He also referenced President Donald Trump’s repeated threats to annex Greenland, framing these moves as part of a broader trend towards unilateral power dynamics. The UN chief emphasized that such behavior threatens the foundational principles of the United Nations, particularly the equality of member states as outlined in the UN Charter, which he described as under significant strain.
During the interview, Guterres expressed frustration with the ineffectiveness of the UN Security Council, where permanent members like the US and Russia have used veto powers to block resolutions on conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. He criticized the council’s composition, noting that “three European countries” hold permanent seats, and called for reforms to “regain legitimacy” and ensure representation for the entire world. Proposed changes include limiting veto powers to prevent “unacceptable blockages” in addressing urgent global crises.
In discussing specific conflicts, Guterres addressed the situation in Gaza, where the UN has faced obstacles in distributing aid due to Israeli restrictions. He asserted that the organization was prepared to provide assistance but was constrained by external conditions, highlighting its limitations in conflict zones. His comments come amid what he characterized as a world “brimming with conflict, impunity, inequality, and unpredictability,” with “brazen violations of international law” posing major challenges to the international order.
Guterres, who is serving his final year as secretary-general after assuming the role in 2017, used the interview to reiterate his call for urgent UN reforms. He warned that “1945 problem-solving” is inadequate for 2026 problems, referring to the outdated structure of the organization established after World War II. The UN chief voiced concern that some world leaders are failing to defend international law, contributing to a growing discourse on the decline of multilateralism.
Despite these criticisms, Guterres maintained a determined outlook, stating that confronting powerful nations is essential to building a better world. He acknowledged the reluctance of some to challenge the US but stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law. The interview highlights escalating diplomatic tensions and sets the stage for ongoing debates about the role of international institutions in an era dominated by great power politics.
The broader context includes other geopolitical issues, such as the US-forced change in Venezuela’s leadership and protests in Iran, which Guterres cited as examples of the complex challenges facing the global community. His remarks signal a critical juncture for the UN as it navigates a shifting world order, with potential long-term impacts on peace, security, and cooperation among nations.
