President Donald Trump addresses the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, at U.N. headquarters.
U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed he was the target of a “triple sabotage” incident during his visit to the United Nations General Assembly. Trump said three unusual mishaps occurred on the same day, which he believes were intentional attempts to undermine him. The Secret Service is now reviewing the matter.
Trump delivered a fiery speech at the UN, where he criticized the institution for “squandering its potential.” He also targeted U.S. allies in Europe over their handling of the Russia-Ukraine war and migration policies, warning world leaders that their countries were “going to hell.” However, Trump later alleged that his appearance was marred by a series of suspicious events.
Escalator Halt Sparks First Concern
According to Trump, the first incident happened when the escalator carrying him and his team suddenly stopped with a loud screech. He described the incident as “absolute sabotage.”
UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric explained that the halt may have been accidental. A videographer from the U.S. delegation reportedly ran ahead of Trump and may have unintentionally triggered the emergency stop button. Despite this, Trump was unconvinced and insisted that “the people who did it should be arrested.”
UN staff and regular visitors are aware that escalator breakdowns are not rare. In fact, due to financial challenges, the UN has occasionally shut down elevators and escalators in both New York and Geneva to cut costs. Yet, Trump maintained that the timing was too deliberate to be dismissed as a coincidence.
Teleprompter Glitch During UN Speech
The second incident Trump cited was the sudden blackout of his teleprompter while he was delivering his speech. He claimed the screen went “stone cold dark,” disrupting his delivery before the world body.
This accusation, however, raised questions. A UN official speaking anonymously clarified that the teleprompter was operated by the White House team, not the UN. The official suggested that the malfunction may have been an internal technical issue rather than an external act of sabotage.
Still, Trump portrayed the glitch as part of a larger conspiracy aimed at embarrassing him on the international stage.
Sound Failure Adds to Troubles
The third issue Trump highlighted was a sound malfunction during his address. According to him, the audio system failed, and only delegates with interpreter earpieces could hear his remarks. Trump even said his wife, Melania, confirmed she could not hear his speech clearly from her seat.
Labeling the sequence of mishaps as “triple sabotage,” Trump expressed frustration over the disruptions. He argued that such failures happening back-to-back could not be accidental.
Secret Service to Review Security Footage
Trump has demanded a full investigation and urged the UN to preserve security footage of the escalator stoppage. He announced that the Secret Service would examine the incidents to determine whether they were intentional.
The UN, however, has downplayed the allegations. Officials pointed out that technical difficulties, including escalator malfunctions, are not unusual. The world body has faced a “liquidity crisis” in recent months due to delayed U.S. funding, forcing periodic shutdowns of certain facilities.
Despite these explanations, Trump insisted the three incidents were linked and deliberately orchestrated against him.
Trump’s Claims Stir Political Attention
Trump’s remarks have fueled political debate, with his supporters echoing concerns of foul play while critics dismiss the claims as exaggerated. His reference to “triple sabotage” has become a focal point of discussion, reflecting his ongoing battle with both international institutions and domestic opponents.
For now, the matter remains under review, with the Secret Service expected to assess whether the incidents were coordinated or coincidental. Until then, Trump continues to frame his UN appearance as evidence of targeted interference.
