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World leaders return to UN amid wars in Middle East and Ukraine
Reuters • • general
Key Points:
- World leaders are convening at the UN General Assembly in New York to address escalating conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, as well as the growing risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI).
- Chinese President Xi Jinping will not attend in person, opting instead for bilateral talks with President Trump in Washington, raising questions about the UN's role in global crisis management.
- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the need for global governance and common safeguards on AI development, contrasting with President Trump's dismissal of AI risks as a "hoax."
- The Middle East conflict remains a critical focus, with ongoing US-Israeli actions against Iran and instability caused by Houthi militants threatening vital shipping routes and energy prices.
- Ukraine's war with Russia continues to dominate discussions, with both Ukrainian President Zelenskiy and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov addressing the assembly amid stalled Security Council action due to Russia's veto power.
