AI, Middle East escalation, Ukraine-Russia war on agenda for upcoming UN General Assembly

World leaders convene at the UN General Assembly in New York this week, with discussions focusing on escalating conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, as well as the potential risks of artificial intelligence (AI). Nearly 130 heads of state are in attendance as the post-World War Two order faces strain, and the UN struggles to remain relevant amidst attacks from US President Donald Trump. Trump has cut America's contributions to the UN and withdrawn from numerous bodies.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping will not join the assembly in New York, opting instead for private talks with Trump in Washington following his video appearance from 2021. This decision fuels debate on the UN's role in addressing global crises.

The 15-member UN Security Council may hold high-level meetings on Ukraine, AI, and the Middle East, including discussions with Arab leaders. Despite being in its second term, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres faces uncertainty regarding the next leader, as no frontrunner has emerged for his replacement.

The US avoided losing its vote by paying $725 million in contributions, yet it still owes over a billion dollars and continues to demand cuts and reforms. AI experts urge a slowdown in the technology's development, warning of potential risks if left unchecked. Guterres has proposed global governance of AI, creating an advisory body in 2023. Trump has criticized AI risks as a hoax, claiming a conspiracy against it and benefiting China from the doubt.

Middle East talks will revolve around the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran, which threatens global inflation and regional stability. Houthi attacks in the Bab al-Mandab Strait exacerbate energy price concerns. Peace talks remain stalled, and the US and Iran continue to exchange strikes, with President Trump threatening further escalation.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is scheduled to speak at the assembly, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, wanted by the International Criminal Court, faces protests upon arrival. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas will not attend in person but will appear via video. Sudan's conflict, which has been ongoing for more than four years, may also be addressed in a high-level meeting during the assembly.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will address the General Assembly, with Zelensky likely seeking to improve Ukraine's position ahead of a challenging winter. The UN Security Council has been unable to act due to Russia's veto power. Trump has expressed frustration over his inability to broker an end to the conflict and may meet Zelensky during the assembly.

Guterres highlighted the war's impact on civilians, food security, and energy prices, emphasizing the need for a safe way to allow Ukrainian and Russian exports through the Black Sea.