Trump Demands Investigation After Escalator, Teleprompter Malfunctions at UN

ByP

1. Escalator Mishap at the UN
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump experienced an unexpected incident at the United Nations on Tuesday when the escalator carrying them suddenly stopped. The couple had to walk up the stalled machine just before Trump’s scheduled address to world leaders.

2. White House Reaction
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt called for an immediate investigation, suggesting the stoppage might have been intentional. She cited prior reports of UN staff joking about restricting escalator and elevator access during Trump’s visit.

3. Claims of Possible Sabotage
On Fox News, Leavitt hinted the incident could be deliberate, saying those responsible should face accountability. The U.S. Secret Service is reportedly reviewing the situation as well.

4. UN Officials Dismiss Sabotage
UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric dismissed any claims of wrongdoing, explaining that the stoppage was triggered by a safety feature when a U.S. videographer walked backward on the escalator to film the Trumps.

5. Mechanical Explanation
Dujarric clarified that the escalator’s built-in safety mechanism had halted movement to prevent accidents. A technician quickly reset the escalator, and a subsequent investigation confirmed the stoppage was purely mechanical, with no nefarious intent.

6. Trump Addresses the Incident
During his UN speech, Trump joked about the escalator and his teleprompter freezing, using humor to reference the mishaps. He praised Melania’s fitness and made light of the situation, drawing laughter from the audience.

7. Broader Context
Trump also reiterated criticisms of the UN, claiming the organization is ineffective. He highlighted his administration’s foreign policy achievements, contrasting them with what he described as a lack of support from the United Nations in finalizing international deals.