The Secret Service has opened an investigation into whether technical malfunctions at the United Nations involving President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were intentional.
As the first lady stepped onto an escalator at UN headquarters, the machine suddenly stopped, causing the couple to steady themselves before walking up the stalled steps. Later, during Trump’s speech to the General Assembly, his teleprompter failed, forcing him to rely on notes.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told Fox News that U.S. officials are examining whether UN staff may have tampered with the equipment, warning there would be accountability if wrongdoing is found.
UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said a review showed the escalator’s safety mechanism was activated, likely by a videographer from the U.S. delegation moving backward on the steps, and denied deliberate interference. The viral video of the halted escalator quickly spread on social media.
During his address, Trump criticized the UN as ineffective, describing it as an “ineffectual talking shop” bogged down by bureaucracy and failing to deliver results.
