More than 190 heads of state converged on New York City for the 78th United Nations General Assembly, focusing on climate action, global health, and conflict resolution. In a separate, highly publicized press conference, former U.S. President Donald Trump sparked controversy by labeling the Washington, D.C. Lincoln Memorial “a military complex” that he claims “needs to be repurposed for national defense.” The remark drew swift rebuke from the U.S. State Department and preservationists, who emphasized the monument’s historic and cultural significance. Meanwhile, UN Secretary‑General António Guterres used the opening session to urge member states to “translate pledges into concrete, measurable outcomes,” especially on the climate front.
On top of everything as it happens