Escalator Incident at the United Nations: A Deep Dive into Trump's Claims of Sabotage

During the United Nations General Assembly on September 23, 2025, President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump encountered a series of technical malfunctions that have since been dubbed "Escalatorgate." The escalator they were using abruptly stopped as they stepped on, leading to claims of "triple sabotage" from Trump, who also experienced issues with a teleprompter and audio during his speech.

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The escalator incident occurred shortly after Trump and Melania entered the U.N. headquarters. As they stepped onto the escalator, it suddenly halted, causing both to momentarily lose their balance. U.N. spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric later stated that a White House videographer inadvertently triggered a safety mechanism designed to prevent accidents. "The safety mechanism is designed to prevent people or objects accidentally being caught and stuck in or pulled into the gearing," Dujarric explained.

Guterres launches probe after Trump cries ‘sabotage’ over UN mishaps

Following the incident, Trump took to Truth Social, declaring, "A REAL DISGRACE took place at the United Nations yesterday — Not one, not two, but three very sinister events!" He characterized the escalator stoppage as "absolutely sabotage," demanding an investigation and suggesting that those responsible should be arrested. Trump claimed that the mishaps could have resulted in serious injury, stating, "It’s amazing that Melania and I didn’t fall forward onto the sharp edges of these steel steps."

Donald Trump calls for investigation over “sinister events” at the UN

In addition to the escalator malfunction, Trump faced difficulties with a malfunctioning teleprompter during his speech. He remarked, "I don’t mind making this speech without a teleprompter, because the teleprompter is not working." A U.N. official indicated that the teleprompter was operated by Trump's team, not U.N. staff. Trump also noted that the audio system was inadequate, claiming that world leaders could not hear him unless they used interpreters' earpieces.

Trump says UN escalator could've hurt him and Melania, demands probe into 'triple sabotage'

The U.N. has initiated an investigation into the incidents, with Dujarric confirming that they are reviewing video footage and cooperating with U.S. authorities. He emphasized that the U.N. stands by its preliminary findings attributing the escalator malfunction to the U.S. delegation's actions. Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt echoed Trump's sentiments, suggesting that if U.N. staff intentionally halted the escalator, they should face consequences.

NPR

Critics have pointed out that Trump's claims of sabotage may be exaggerated. Some commentators have labeled the uproar over the escalator incident as a distraction from more pressing issues facing the Trump administration. Additionally, various media outlets have highlighted the absurdity of labeling technical difficulties as "sabotage," arguing that such incidents are not uncommon in large organizations.

Billboard

While Trump and his administration have framed the escalator incident as a deliberate act, the U.N. has maintained that it was an accident caused by a safety feature. The discrepancy between these narratives has fueled speculation and conspiracy theories, particularly among Trump's supporters, who have suggested that the U.N. staff may have conspired against him.

Time Magazine

• “A REAL DISGRACE took place at the United Nations yesterday — Not one, not two, but three very sinister events!” — Donald Trump

NPR

• “The safety mechanism is designed to prevent people or objects accidentally being caught and stuck in or pulled into the gearing.” — Stéphane Dujarric, U.N. Spokesperson

The Sun - US

• “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.” — Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary

AmoMama

The U.N. has committed to a thorough investigation of the escalator and teleprompter incidents, with updates expected as the inquiry progresses. Meanwhile, the political fallout from these events continues to unfold, with calls for accountability from both the Trump administration and various commentators.

NPR