The UN Secretary-General says the organization is approaching a dangerous financial breaking point, with reduced US support worsening an already severe budget crunch.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned member states that the United Nations is facing a serious and escalating financial crisis, cautioning that the organization is in danger of economic collapse if urgent action is not taken.
In a message circulated to all UN members, Guterres pointed to chronic budget shortfalls, unpaid member-state dues, and rising operational costs, stressing that the situation could deteriorate further amid reduced political and financial backing from the administration of Donald Trump. The Trump administration has pushed for cuts to UN funding and demanded reforms, arguing that US taxpayers should not shoulder a disproportionate share of the organization’s costs without accountability and results.
Guterres warned that without immediate corrective measures, the UN may be forced to scale back key activities, delay payments, and reduce staff, undermining its ability to function effectively across peacekeeping, humanitarian aid, and diplomatic initiatives.