United Nations Secretary-General warns against reliance on superpower strength

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres warned that global superpowers cannot solve world problems or ensure security alone through military, economic, or technological power. In his final address to the UN General Assembly, Guterres noted that international cooperation frameworks are weakening as the world faces unprecedented crises, including war, human rights violations, climate change, and the rapid rise of artificial intelligence.

Guterres highlighted the deepening divisions in the world, describing them as moving from ‘cracks to deep chasms.’ He specifically addressed the conflict in Gaza, stating he has not seen such levels of destruction and mass killing during his tenure, and called for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian access. He also criticized the Russian invasion of Ukraine as a violation of the UN Charter and expressed concern over the climate crisis, noting that major oil companies have profited immensely while climate adaptation funds for developing nations remain insufficient.

The Secretary-General urged the international community to avoid splitting into two rival camps, emphasizing that power alone cannot achieve lasting peace and stability.