U.S. President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation withdrawing the United States from dozens of international organizations, according to a statement released by the White House on Wednesday. The move marks a significant shift in U.S. engagement with multilateral institutions and reflects the administration’s emphasis on national sovereignty and domestic priorities.
The proclamation directs the U.S. to exit 35 non-United Nations organizations and 31 United Nations–affiliated entities that the administration says operate against American national interests.
White House Cites National Interest Concerns
Organizations Accused of Undermining U.S. Priorities
In its statement, the White House said the organizations targeted by the withdrawal promote agendas that conflict with U.S. values and interests. These include what it described as “radical climate policies, global governance initiatives, and ideological programs” that the administration believes undermine U.S. sovereignty and economic strength.
The White House did not name the specific organizations affected by the proclamation.
Emphasis on Sovereignty and Economic Strength
According to the statement, the decision reflects President Trump’s long-standing view that the United States should not participate in international bodies that limit its independence or impose obligations seen as harmful to domestic industries, economic growth, or national decision-making authority.
Result of Broad Review of International Commitments
Comprehensive Assessment Ordered
The withdrawal follows a comprehensive review of all international intergovernmental organizations, conventions, and treaties in which the United States holds membership or is a formal party.
The White House said the review aimed to assess whether U.S. participation in these institutions continues to serve national interests or instead imposes political, economic, or regulatory burdens.
Policy Consistent With “America First” Approach
Officials described the move as consistent with the administration’s broader “America First” foreign policy approach, which prioritizes bilateral relationships over multilateral frameworks and emphasizes domestic control over international cooperation.
Potential Impact on Global Engagement
Reduced U.S. Role in Multilateral Institutions
The withdrawal is expected to reduce the United States’ involvement in a wide range of international initiatives, though the full impact remains unclear due to the absence of a detailed list of affected organizations.
Such moves could reshape U.S. influence within global governance structures, particularly in areas related to climate policy, development programs, and international regulation.
Reactions Likely From Allies and Institutions
While immediate reactions were not included in the White House statement, the decision is likely to draw responses from U.S. allies and international institutions, many of which rely on American funding, expertise, and diplomatic engagement.
A Familiar Strategy From Trump’s Presidency
Continuation of Previous Withdrawal Efforts
The proclamation aligns with President Trump’s previous actions aimed at reducing U.S. participation in international agreements and organizations he has criticized as ineffective or biased against American interests.
Throughout his presidency, Trump has repeatedly questioned the value of multilateral institutions and argued that they place disproportionate obligations on the United States.
Focus on Domestic Policy Control
Supporters of the move argue that it restores control over policy decisions to U.S. lawmakers and voters, while critics warn it could weaken global cooperation and diminish U.S. leadership on international issues.
What Comes Next
The White House did not specify when the withdrawals would take effect or whether additional organizations could be affected following further reviews. More details are expected as federal agencies begin implementing the proclamation.
For now, the decision signals a renewed push by the Trump administration to redefine America’s role on the global stage—favoring sovereignty and unilateral action over participation in broad international frameworks.
