United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday delivered a pointed critique of global power politics, saying international problems cannot be solved by a single power “calling the shots” or by dividing the world into rival spheres of influence—remarks widely interpreted as a dig at United States President Donald Trump and the broader U.S.-China rivalry.

Speaking to reporters at UN headquarters as he marked the start of his 10th and final year in office, Antonio Guterres stressed that global stability requires cooperation beyond unilateral dominance. He said neither a unipolar world led by one power nor a bipolar system dominated by Washington and Beijing would deliver lasting peace, development, or shared global values.

Clarifying his comments, Guterres noted that some policymakers increasingly frame the future as one shaped by two poles—one centered on the United States and the other on China. He argued instead for a multipolar world order, saying sustainable peace and development can only be achieved if multiple actors share responsibility and influence within a strong multilateral system.

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The remarks come amid renewed emphasis by Donald Trump, who began his second presidential term a year ago, on restoring U.S. dominance, particularly in the Western Hemisphere. Critics say this approach revives an outdated worldview of great powers carving out spheres of influence, a concept many in the international community have long rejected.

Guterres also underscored the central role of the United Nations in maintaining international peace and security, arguing that the UN Security Council must be reformed to remain effective. He pointed out that some countries critical of the UN’s performance simultaneously oppose reforms that could make the body more representative and responsive.

Reflecting on global challenges during his second term—including the Russia-Ukraine war, conflicts in Gaza and Sudan, instability in Afghanistan, and strains on multilateral institutions—Guterres warned that international law and cooperation are under increasing pressure. Despite funding cuts and political challenges, he said the UN would continue pushing for “just and sustainable peace” rooted in international law and focused on addressing the root causes of conflict.

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