Donald Trump Orders United States to Leave the United Nations After Somalia Is Set to Assume Presidency of UN Security Council on January 1, Calling the Decision ‘Un-Freaking-Believable’

Trump Sparks Global Uproar After Calling for U.S. Exit From United Nations Over Somalia’s Incoming Security Council Presidency

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has ignited international controversy after declaring that the United States should leave the United Nations following the announcement that Somalia will assume the rotating presidency of the UN Security Council on January 1.

In a series of remarks that quickly spread across social media and political circles, Trump described the development as “un-freaking-believable,” arguing that the decision highlights what he called the United Nations’ deep structural failures and declining credibility.

The UN Security Council presidency rotates monthly among its 15 members and is largely procedural, involving the scheduling of meetings and setting agendas. Somalia, a non-permanent member elected by the General Assembly, is set to take on the role as part of that rotation. Nevertheless, Trump framed the move as symbolic of what he views as misplaced priorities within the global body.

“How can a country struggling to maintain its own internal security be put in charge of a worldwide security council?” Trump said, according to accounts of the remarks. “This is exactly why the UN no longer works.”

Political Shockwaves

Trump’s comments immediately triggered strong reactions both in the United States and abroad. Supporters echoed his criticism, arguing that the UN has become detached from real-world security challenges and disproportionately influenced by political symbolism rather than effectiveness.

Critics, however, pushed back sharply, noting that the Security Council presidency does not grant unilateral power and that Somalia’s role is limited and temporary. Diplomats and international law experts emphasized that the UN system is designed to give rotating representation to member states, regardless of size or internal challenges.

“This is a misunderstanding of how the Security Council works,” one former U.S. diplomat said. “The presidency does not control global security decisions. Power still rests with the council as a whole.”

Legal and Practical Reality

Despite Trump’s declaration, the United States cannot unilaterally withdraw from the United Nations through a statement alone. Any formal exit would require congressional involvement, funding decisions, and compliance with international obligations outlined in the UN Charter.

The U.S. remains the UN’s largest financial contributor and plays a central role in Security Council deliberations, peacekeeping mandates, and humanitarian operations worldwide.

Somalia and the UN Role

Somalia’s election as a non-permanent member of the Security Council was supported by African regional blocs and is viewed by the UN as part of broader efforts to include regions often most affected by global security decisions.

Somali officials have previously described their Security Council membership as an opportunity to contribute perspectives shaped by firsthand experience with conflict, counterterrorism, and peacebuilding.

A Familiar Pattern

Trump’s latest remarks align with his long-standing skepticism toward multilateral institutions. During his presidency, he repeatedly criticized the UN, withdrew the U.S. from several international agreements, and threatened funding cuts to organizations he viewed as ineffective or biased.

While no formal action has been taken to remove the United States from the UN, Trump’s statement has once again reopened debate over America’s role in global governance—and whether disengagement strengthens or weakens U.S. influence on the world stage.

For now, the United Nations continues preparations for Somalia’s procedural presidency, even as Trump’s comments fuel political debate at home and diplomatic discussions abroad.