Donald Trump has called for an official investigation into what he described as “triple sabotage” during his address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday. The former US president said a stalled escalator, a malfunctioning teleprompter and sound issues in the hall were deliberate attempts to undermine his appearance before world leaders.
Trump calls for an investigation
Speaking on Wednesday, Trump said the sequence of incidents could not be dismissed as a coincidence. He argued that three technical failures during a single address pointed to deeper problems with how the session was managed. “When you have three major malfunctions in one event, it is clear something is going on,” he told reporters, pressing for the UN to open an inquiry.
A series of technical mishaps
According to accounts from delegates, Trump’s arrival was delayed when an escalator briefly stalled. During his remarks, the teleprompter froze, forcing him to continue without prepared text. Soon after, intermittent sound problems disrupted the flow of his speech. Technicians restored systems quickly, but the issues drew attention and left Trump visibly frustrated.
UN response and scepticism
The United Nations has not issued an official statement regarding the complaints. Technical complications are not unusual during the General Assembly, which hosts dozens of heads of state and relies on complex translation and broadcasting systems. Analysts suggested the mishaps were likely logistical rather than intentional, while Trump’s supporters amplified his accusations on social media.
Domestic political reaction
The claims have resonated in the United States, where Trump remains a central figure in national politics. Allies argued the incidents reflected broader bias against him, while critics dismissed the remarks as another attempt to generate controversy. The timing is notable, as Trump continues to position himself for influence in the 2026 midterm elections and weighs a possible 2028 presidential campaign.
Strained ties with multilateral bodies
Trump’s adversarial relationship with international organisations was a hallmark of his presidency. His latest accusations extend that pattern, reinforcing his view that multilateral institutions are aligned against him. Whether the UN will pursue an inquiry remains uncertain, but the incident has again placed Trump at the centre of international attention.
Newshub Editorial in North America – 25 September 2025
