By Michelle Nichols

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) – The United Nations is preparing for the potential return of Donald Trump, anticipating cuts to U.S. funding and involvement in the organization during his second presidential term.

A senior Asian diplomat described a feeling of "déjà vu and some trepidation" following Trump's victory over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris in the recent U.S. election. However, there is a belief that a transactional Trump administration might still engage with the U.N. in specific areas despite potential budget reductions. The diplomat remarked, "What bigger and better global stage is there than the United Nations?"

A U.S. retreat from the U.N. could bolster China's influence in global diplomacy.

While Trump has provided limited specifics regarding foreign policy for his second term, supporters assert that his strong personality and a "peace through strength" approach will effectively influence foreign leaders. He has pledged to address the war in Ukraine and to offer robust support to Israel in its conflicts against Hamas and Hezbollah.

A major concern for the U.N. revolves around the U.S.'s financial contributions to the organization. As the largest contributor to the U.N. and the peacekeeping budget, any significant funding cuts or withdrawal from key agreements, including the World Health Organization and the Paris climate agreement, would be concerning.

U.S. Funding and Budget Cuts

Under Trump's previous administration, he proposed reducing U.S. diplomatic and aid budgets by about one-third, which included significant cuts to U.N. peacekeeping and international organizations. However, Congress countered these proposals. A U.N. spokesperson indicated that such cuts would jeopardize essential operations, while Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group mentioned that the U.N. has been preparing for a potential Trump resurgence.

Though the U.N. has planned for these budget cuts, officials are aware the upcoming year could be particularly challenging. Trump's team has yet to respond regarding future U.N. policy after he takes office once more in January.

During his first term, Trump voiced concerns over the U.S. carrying an unfair share of the U.N. expenses and advocated for reforms. When he left office, the U.S. was about $600 million in arrears for the core budget and $2 billion for peacekeeping.

Biden's administration currently owes $995 million for the core U.N. budget and $862 million for peacekeeping, according to U.N. data.

Possible Shifts in Multilateralism

In 2026, the U.N. Security Council will select Guterres' successor, with the Trump administration holding veto power in this decision. Trump has historically criticized the U.N. and taken a multilateralism-averse stance, announcing intentions to withdraw from several international agreements and organizations.

A senior European diplomat remarked a Trump victory would be "great news for China," given the significant increase in Chinese influence during his first term. If Trump cuts U.N. funding and backtracks on multinational agreements, it may allow China to present itself as a leading supporter of multilateralism.

Concerns also extend to funding for other U.N. agencies; Trump's prior cuts to the U.N. Population Fund (UNFPA)—an agency focusing on family planning and maternal health—could reemerge as a pressing issue, as warned by UNFPA that such cuts would deprive women of vital health services amidst crises.

Overall, the potential return of Trump poses significant uncertainties for multilateralism and the future of the United Nations, as expressed by a senior African diplomat: "The heavens help us."