IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi stated in Vienna that the UN Secretary-General should focus on problem-solving rather than making accusations, citing his mediation efforts between Russia and Ukraine as an example of his practical approach. He emphasized the importance of maintaining dialogue with political leaders to achieve resolutions.
Russia's UN envoy Vasily Nebenzya stated that any future UN Secretary-General, while unable to single-handedly resolve the Ukraine conflict, could play an instrumental role in its resolution. The selection process for the next UN chief begins July 24.
US President Donald Trump stated forces would strike Iran 'very hard' following escalating hostilities. The UN warns of a potential full war. The US blames Iran for a helicopter crash, leading to strikes, while Iran retaliated against US sites. Trump also revealed a 'secret mission' to escort tankers through the Strait of Hormuz.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, a candidate for the next UN Secretary-General. Bachelet emphasized the need for multilateralism and UN reform, while Wang Yi affirmed China's support for strengthening the UN's role and stated China's constructive approach to the upcoming election.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with former Chilean President and UN Secretary-General candidate Michelle Bachelet in Beijing on June 4, 2026. Bachelet emphasized the need for multilateralism and UN reform, while Wang Yi affirmed China's support for strengthening the UN's role and its commitment to participating constructively in the election of the next Secretary-General.
Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Alimov stated that the future UN Secretary-General must be impartial and rectify the mistakes of the current leadership. He emphasized strict adherence to the UN Charter and noted that Russia is communicating its demands to candidates but has no clear favorite yet.
Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met with UN Secretary-General candidate Michelle Bachelet in Beijing on June 3. Han affirmed China's support for the UN and its role in global governance, while Bachelet praised China's commitment to multilateralism and UN reform.
Vice President Han Zheng met with former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, a candidate for UN Secretary-General, in Beijing. Han praised China's commitment to multilateralism and the UN, while Bachelet commended China's support for the UN's role and reforms.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and UN Secretary-General António Guterres discussed the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. The conversation focused on US efforts to curb Iran's illegal mining and passage fees in the strait, including a draft UN Security Council resolution.
Some governments are openly mulling the acquisition of these horrific weapons, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said
Four candidates vying to replace UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres faced questioning over two days, with all expressing pessimistic views about the organization's direction. Argentine diplomat Rafael Grossi, former Chilean president Michelle Bachelet, UN official Rebeca Grynspan, and former Senegal president Macky Sall all voiced concerns about waning trust in the UN and doubts about its effectiveness.
Russia says UN Secretary-General candidate Rebeca Grynspan responded reasonably to Russian demands regarding the election and made an impression of a thoughtful politician open to arguments. The Russian Foreign Ministry official noted Russia shares Grynspan's intention to help restore constructive dialogue within the P5 if elected. Interactive dialogues with candidates continue through April 22.
Public hearings of candidates for the position of the UN secretary-general, where they will present their programs, will begin on April 21
Russia will actively participate in interactive dialogues at the UN General Assembly with candidates for Secretary-General on April 21-22, according to Kirill Logvinov of the Russian Foreign Ministry. Candidates include former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, UNCTAD head Rebeca Grynspan, and former Senegalese President Macky Sall.
Four candidates to be the next secretary-general of the United Nations will audition for the job this week, far fewer than there were 10 years ago when António Guterres was selected as U.N. chief
