UN General Assembly opens amid wars, AI fears, and climate crises
World leaders gather at the United Nations this week amid wars, divisions, and fears that runaway artificial intelligence could threaten humanity while climate shocks and rising prices worsen life for hundreds of millions. The annual General Assembly will focus on major conflicts in Iran, Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Congo, and Myanmar, plus global warming, inequality, and economic shocks. About 130 heads of state will speak, including U.S. President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron. The U.N. faces financial strain, with the U.S. paying $725 million in dues to retain its vote. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivers his final assembly address, while reform of the Security Council and succession questions loom.