Trump Alleges 'Sabotage' at UN Following Escalator and Teleprompter Malfunctions
US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump experienced a series of technical difficulties at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Tuesday, leading to calls for an investigation and sparking a flurry of conspiracy theories. The incidents, which included an escalator malfunction and a frozen teleprompter, have been dubbed 'Escalatorgate' by the media.
Background and Context
The UNGA took place in New York, where President Trump was scheduled to deliver a speech. As Trump and the First Lady were stepping onto an escalator, it reportedly stalled, forcing the pair to continue on foot. Later, during his address, the President was forced to improvise his speech after a teleprompter malfunction.
The Incidents and Reactions
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded to the incidents by calling for an investigation into potential intentional sabotage. Leavitt stated, If someone at the UN intentionally stopped the escalator as the President and First Lady were stepping on, they need to be fired and investigated immediately.
However, the UN has denied any sabotage, suggesting the mishap was accidentally triggered by a built-in safety mechanism.
President Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to express his frustration over the incidents. “A REAL DISGRACE took place at the United Nations yesterday,” Trump wrote. “Not one, not two, but three very sinister events!” He mentioned the escalator malfunction, the teleprompter failure, and sound problems during his speech.
Contrasting Narratives
While some speculate the incidents were intentional attempts to humiliate the President, others suggest they were simply unfortunate mishaps. Several outlets, including Al Jazeera English and The Guardian, reported that the UN attributed the escalator malfunction to an accidental triggering of a safety mechanism.
Meanwhile, The Hindu and Sky News World reported that a UN official, speaking on condition of anonymity, suggested Trump’s own staff were to blame for the nonworking escalator and teleprompter. The Times of Israel also reported that the UN chief blamed Trump’s videographer for the failed escalator.
Investigation and Current Status
In response to the incidents, Trump announced on his social media site that the Secret Service will be looking into the issues. Fox News Digital has reportedly reached out to the White House, the U.N., and the U.S. Secret Service regarding the matter.
While the investigation unfolds, the incidents continue to spark debate and speculation. As the UNGA moves into its second day, the world will be watching closely for any further developments in what is quickly becoming one of the most controversial stories of this year's assembly.