The UN could run out of funds by July 2026 if countries fail to pay their dues on time.

General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock and Secretary-General António Guterres warned that the organization is facing a severe liquidity crisis.

The United States of America, the largest contributor to the UN regular budget (approximately 22% of the total), accounts for the bulk of the debt. As of early February 2026, the US regular budget debt was approximately 2,2 billion USD, including current and overdue payments. The total amount of unpaid contributions for the regular budget amounts to several billion dollars, with the United States responsible for over 95% of this amount. The arrears for peacekeeping operations alone are even higher. Washington has not yet determined how much or when it will pay.

So far, only 61 countries have paid their contributions in full for 2026. The rest are awaiting the US position.

Amid the financial crisis, UN leadership is being forced to embrace austerity measures. According to The New York Times, the possibility of moving the UN headquarters from New York is being discussed behind the scenes. However, US President Donald Trump categorically rejected the idea: "The UN will not leave New York, and it will not leave the United States."