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UN general assembly: Barack Obama lambasts Russia's actions in Ukraine UN general assembly: Barack Obama lambasts Russia's actions in Ukraine
(35 minutes later)
4.20pm BST16:20
Duda says there is nothing worse than “manipulating truth”, including the truth about history. He praises “dedicated” bloggers and journalists who expose wrongdoing by totalitarian regimes.
4.14pm BST16:14
Our diplomatic editor Julian Borger has been watching this morning’s action. He writes this:
“In his address, Obama confronted the most contentious and divisive issue hanging over this year’s general assembly: what to do about Syria. He insisted that the US would be second no nation in combatting the Islamic State but that equally there can be no return to the “pre-war status quo” ie a leader who “slaughters tens of thousands of his own people”.
“This is the first shot in a struggle over the second 24 hours to seize control of the anti-Isis agenda and global leadership in Syria. Next up is Vladimir Putin and then Hassan Rouhani. Neither was in the chamber when Obama spoke. They both argue that Isis must be defeated and then maybe the Assad regime can be “reformed”. The will have the last word today, but Obama chairs a summit on the issue tomorrow, to which Rouhani is not invited and Putin is not coming.”
4.12pm BST16:12
Poland’s president Andrzej Duda is speaking now. He says that international law and human rights were the first things to be dumped when Poland was invaded (by both Hitler and Stalin) during the second world war.
Says “international treaties” are still violated and solemn promises trampled upon. Poland is particularly sensitive about aggression having been occupied for 40 years. Duda hasn’t mentioned Ukraine explicitly, but appears to be referencing Russia’s annexation of Crimea and its war in eastern Ukraine.
4.06pm BST16:06
The Iranian president Hassan Rouhani and UK prime minister David Cameron have met on the sidelines of the UN general assembly, our Iran expert Saeed Kamali Dehghan says:
Iran's president meets UK prime minister David Cameron on the sidelines of the UN general assembly in New York (via @abasinfo)
It looks like Rouhani is meeting Cameron while Obama is speaking. There's always an excuse.
Updated at 4.13pm BST
4.03pm BST16:03
Obama's address – snap analysis
Dan Roberts
Dan Roberts, our man in Washington, has this reaction to Obama’s speech:
Given how little sleep he must get, it is perhaps unfair to draw too much inference from the sight of John Kerry yawning during his boss’s big address to the United Nations, but the US secretary of state can be forgiven for feeling like he has heard some of this before.
@RobertsDan pic.twitter.com/pGOcU7Bn6t
Flush from his foreign policy successes in Iran and Cuba, the US president gave a speech reaffirming his doctrine of diplomacy-first that may go down as a moment of peak Obama.
“If we cannot work together effectively, we will all suffer the consequences... the US cannot solve the world’s problems alone,” intoned Obama in warm words that few in the room will have disagreed with.
“I believe in my core that repression cannot forge the social cohesion needed for nations to succeed,” he added, as the camera cut away to pictures of the Russian and Chinese delegations looking not so much stony-faced, as non-plussed.
There was surprisingly little reference to the frustration that US officials increasingly feel about the United Nations as a forum for solving such intractable problems.
Related: Russian vetoes are putting UN security council's legitimacy at risk, says US
Instead, for his fans, this was the principled Obama that they love best: passionate and optimistic. For his critics, at home and abroad, here too was also the overly-idealistic president who puts store by negotiation and compromise while his opponents merely look calmly on.
Updated at 4.06pm BST
4.01pm BST16:01
Obama makes a plea here for universal values. Says ordinary people are fundamentally good, value family and faith, and the dignity of hard work. Cooperation isn’t weakness but strength, he says. “It’s a practical necessity in this interconnected world.”
He cites the Americans who lowered the flag at the US embassy in Havana in 1961, and returned this August to put it back up again. And mentions the refugees who left everything behind and crossed dangerous seas “just to save their children”. He quotes a refugee in Hamburg: “We feel there are still some people who love other people.”
“There are certain ideas and princples which are universal. That’s what those who shaped the UN 70 years ago understood.”
He’s finished. Pretty warm applause.
3.56pm BST15:56
We’ve moved onto climate change. “We can roll back the pollution in our skies,” Obama says. “In the same way we developed computers we can harness clean energy.” He says he wants to “decisively confront this challenge”.
Obama praises the universal values of UN, and says “catastrophes like that in Syria” don’t happen in democracies. He says some universal truths are self-evident: no woman should be abused with impunity, or girl barred from going to school. The freedom to petition those in power are not ideas of one country but fundamental to human progress.
He says governments that suppress dissent are showing “weakness” not strength – “history shows that regimes that fear their own people will crumble.” Obama criticises leaders who amend constitutions to stay in office and observes: “None of us last for ever.”
.@POTUS at @UN: Will work with every nation willing 2 do its part so we can come 2gether in Paris to confront this challenge. #ActOnClimate
3.48pm BST15:48
The US is launching fresh efforts to help Syrian refugees settle in America. “In the face of suffering families, our nation of immigrants sees itself,” Obama says.
Updated at 3.49pm BST
3.47pm BST15:47
Obama is now turning to Syria:
Nowhere is our commitment to international order more tested than in Syria. When a dictator slaughters tens of thousands of his own people that’s not just a matter of one nation’s internal affairs.
He says this creates suffering “that affects us all” and that there is nothing to be gained from accommodating “an apocalyptic cult” such as Isis. He makes no apology for the US military pursuing action against it. Bombing is necessary but doesn’t amount to a solution, he says. He says he is prepared to work with any nation “including Russia and Iran to resolve the conflict”.
Obama rules out any return to the pre-war status quo. There has to be a managed transition from Assad to a new leader. This will allow the Syrian people to rebuild. Part of the solution is combating Isis’s poisonous ideology, he says, which equates Islam with terror.
Updated at 3.50pm BST
3.42pm BST15:423.42pm BST15:42
Obama adds: “Where order has completely broken down we must act but we will be stronger when we act together. In such efforts the US will always do our part, mindful of the past, not just the lessons of Iraq but of Libya.”Obama adds: “Where order has completely broken down we must act but we will be stronger when we act together. In such efforts the US will always do our part, mindful of the past, not just the lessons of Iraq but of Libya.”
He says the White House will help “any legitimate Libyan government” but recognises that the international community has to do more to build capacity “before states collapse”.He says the White House will help “any legitimate Libyan government” but recognises that the international community has to do more to build capacity “before states collapse”.
3.40pm BST15:403.40pm BST15:40
Obama says Iran continues to deploy violent proxies to pursue its interests, fuelling sectarian conflicts in the Middle East and isolating the country. Chanting “Death to America” doesn’t create jobs or make Iran more secure, he notes.Obama says Iran continues to deploy violent proxies to pursue its interests, fuelling sectarian conflicts in the Middle East and isolating the country. Chanting “Death to America” doesn’t create jobs or make Iran more secure, he notes.
"Chanting Death to America does not create jobs, or make Iran more secure." —@POTUS on Iran's opportunity to choose a different path #UNGA"Chanting Death to America does not create jobs, or make Iran more secure." —@POTUS on Iran's opportunity to choose a different path #UNGA
Updated at 3.41pm BSTUpdated at 3.41pm BST
3.39pm BST15:393.39pm BST15:39
For 50 years the US pursued a Cuba policy that failed to improve the lives of the Cuban people, he says. “We changed that.”For 50 years the US pursued a Cuba policy that failed to improve the lives of the Cuban people, he says. “We changed that.”
He says he’s confident Congress will lift the US embargo on Cuba – “which should not be in place any more”. There is applause in the chamber.He says he’s confident Congress will lift the US embargo on Cuba – “which should not be in place any more”. There is applause in the chamber.
Obama says change in Cuba will be gradual.Obama says change in Cuba will be gradual.
Updated at 3.41pm BSTUpdated at 3.41pm BST
3.37pm BST15:373.37pm BST15:37
Obama says that US have few interests in Crimea, annexed last year by Russia. He says: “We can’t stand by when the sovereignty of a nation is flagrantly violated. If that happens to a sovereign nation like Ukraine in can happen to any nation here.”Obama says that US have few interests in Crimea, annexed last year by Russia. He says: “We can’t stand by when the sovereignty of a nation is flagrantly violated. If that happens to a sovereign nation like Ukraine in can happen to any nation here.”
He says US sanctions against Moscow do not show a desire to return to a cold war, despite what Russian state media says.He says US sanctions against Moscow do not show a desire to return to a cold war, despite what Russian state media says.
Look at the results, he asks. Ukrainian people are more interested in joining Europe, educated Russians are leaving the country. It would have been much better if Russia had worked with the international community and Ukraine, rather than acting independently and using “the law of force”.Look at the results, he asks. Ukrainian people are more interested in joining Europe, educated Russians are leaving the country. It would have been much better if Russia had worked with the international community and Ukraine, rather than acting independently and using “the law of force”.
3.36pm BST15:363.36pm BST15:36
Obama is now talking about the groundbreaking nuclear deal agreed with Iran in July. He says that international countries “including Russia” stuck together over two years. This lead to a lasting comprehensive deal with Tehran.Obama is now talking about the groundbreaking nuclear deal agreed with Iran in July. He says that international countries “including Russia” stuck together over two years. This lead to a lasting comprehensive deal with Tehran.
3.31pm BST15:313.31pm BST15:31
Obama makes a plea for international cooperation: “We the US can’t solve the world’s problems on our own.”Obama makes a plea for international cooperation: “We the US can’t solve the world’s problems on our own.”
He admits that stability has been elusive in Iraq despite the expenditure of “trillions of dollars”. The solution, he suggests is to defeat the ideas which drive countries like Iraq into conflict.He admits that stability has been elusive in Iraq despite the expenditure of “trillions of dollars”. The solution, he suggests is to defeat the ideas which drive countries like Iraq into conflict.
The president also takes a swipe at dictators – again without mentioning Putin or others by name. He suggests they risk provoking uprisings at home: ‘The strong men of today become the spark of revolution tomorrow.”The president also takes a swipe at dictators – again without mentioning Putin or others by name. He suggests they risk provoking uprisings at home: ‘The strong men of today become the spark of revolution tomorrow.”
"No matter how powerful our military, how strong our economy...the United States cannot solve the world’s problems alone." —@POTUS #UNGA"No matter how powerful our military, how strong our economy...the United States cannot solve the world’s problems alone." —@POTUS #UNGA
3.28pm BST15:283.28pm BST15:28
Obama says the US is not immune to this thinking even though “our troops have largely returned from Iraq and Afghanistan”. He adds: “We see an argument that the only strength that matters to the US is bellicose words, and shows of force.”Obama says the US is not immune to this thinking even though “our troops have largely returned from Iraq and Afghanistan”. He adds: “We see an argument that the only strength that matters to the US is bellicose words, and shows of force.”
The president says he’s mindful of the genuine national threats that cross his desk every morning, and says he’s prepared to respond where necessary. But he adds: “We the nations of the world can’t return to the old ways of conflict”.The president says he’s mindful of the genuine national threats that cross his desk every morning, and says he’s prepared to respond where necessary. But he adds: “We the nations of the world can’t return to the old ways of conflict”.
3.24pm BST15:243.24pm BST15:24
Obama praises the “international principles” that have helped stop bigger countries from “imposing their will on smaller ones”. He notes, however, that the march of “human progress has never travelled in a straight line”.Obama praises the “international principles” that have helped stop bigger countries from “imposing their will on smaller ones”. He notes, however, that the march of “human progress has never travelled in a straight line”.
The president now appears to be making a veiled reference to Putin and his 2014 annexation of Crimea. He complains that there is a new doctrine harking back to a time before the UN which says that “strong states must impose their will on weaker ones”.The president now appears to be making a veiled reference to Putin and his 2014 annexation of Crimea. He complains that there is a new doctrine harking back to a time before the UN which says that “strong states must impose their will on weaker ones”.
3.19pm BST15:193.19pm BST15:19
US president Barack Obama addresses UNUS president Barack Obama addresses UN
Obama says 70 years after the founding of the UN it is “worth reflecting” on what the organisation has achieved. The president says it has supported strong democracies, and has built an international order that “recognises the dignity and equal worth of all people”.Obama says 70 years after the founding of the UN it is “worth reflecting” on what the organisation has achieved. The president says it has supported strong democracies, and has built an international order that “recognises the dignity and equal worth of all people”.
Updated at 3.22pm BSTUpdated at 3.22pm BST
3.17pm BST15:173.17pm BST15:17
Rousseff has finished and has left the stage, to light applause. She clocked in at 22 minutes – seven minutes over time. President Obama is speaking next.Rousseff has finished and has left the stage, to light applause. She clocked in at 22 minutes – seven minutes over time. President Obama is speaking next.
3.16pm BST15:163.16pm BST15:16
Rousseff says Brazil is looking forward to hosting the 2016 Olympic Games:Rousseff says Brazil is looking forward to hosting the 2016 Olympic Games:
I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate that Brazil welcomes citizens from around the world with open arms for the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games to be held in Rio de Janeiro.I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate that Brazil welcomes citizens from around the world with open arms for the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games to be held in Rio de Janeiro.
This will be a unique opportunity to promote sport as a key tool for peace, social inclusion and tolerance, and in the fight against racial, ethnic or gender discrimination. It will also be an opportunity to promote the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities, one of the priorities of my government.This will be a unique opportunity to promote sport as a key tool for peace, social inclusion and tolerance, and in the fight against racial, ethnic or gender discrimination. It will also be an opportunity to promote the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities, one of the priorities of my government.
3.12pm BST15:123.12pm BST15:12
Meanwhile, Vladimir Putin’s jet has landed in New York. The Russian president is notoriously tardy, often keeping fellow heads of state waiting for hours before they are finally granted an audience with the great man.Meanwhile, Vladimir Putin’s jet has landed in New York. The Russian president is notoriously tardy, often keeping fellow heads of state waiting for hours before they are finally granted an audience with the great man.
Will Putin make it to the UN general assembly on time?Will Putin make it to the UN general assembly on time?
Putin has landed. https://t.co/vR4GGMEEHaPutin has landed. https://t.co/vR4GGMEEHa
3.09pm BST15:093.09pm BST15:09
It seems the official UN site spelled Barack Obama’s first name wrong earlier (see screengrab below). Someone obviously got an ear-bashing, as it’s been fixed now.It seems the official UN site spelled Barack Obama’s first name wrong earlier (see screengrab below). Someone obviously got an ear-bashing, as it’s been fixed now.
Updated at 3.09pm BSTUpdated at 3.09pm BST
3.07pm BST15:073.07pm BST15:07
Rousseff is now talking about Brazil’s efforts to tackle climate change. It’s reduced deforestation in the Amazon region by 82%, she says, plans to reforest 12 million hectares, and is boosting “ethanol and sugar-cane derived biomasses”.Rousseff is now talking about Brazil’s efforts to tackle climate change. It’s reduced deforestation in the Amazon region by 82%, she says, plans to reforest 12 million hectares, and is boosting “ethanol and sugar-cane derived biomasses”.
In short, Brazil is on track to reduce emissions.In short, Brazil is on track to reduce emissions.
3.00pm BST15:003.00pm BST15:00
Rousseff says Islamic State is responsible for “barbaric acts”, which are driving the refugee crisis. “The deep indignation caused by the picture of a dead Syrian boy” should lead countries to “unmistakeable acts of practical solidarity”, she suggests.Rousseff says Islamic State is responsible for “barbaric acts”, which are driving the refugee crisis. “The deep indignation caused by the picture of a dead Syrian boy” should lead countries to “unmistakeable acts of practical solidarity”, she suggests.
She adds that it is “absurd” to prevent the free movement of people and notes that her own country, Brazil, is an open, multi-ethnic nation.She adds that it is “absurd” to prevent the free movement of people and notes that her own country, Brazil, is an open, multi-ethnic nation.
Updated at 3.00pm BSTUpdated at 3.00pm BST
2.54pm BST14:542.54pm BST14:54
Brazil’s president Dilma Rousseff addresses UNBrazil’s president Dilma Rousseff addresses UN
Brazil’s president Dilma Rousseff is speaking now.Brazil’s president Dilma Rousseff is speaking now.
Updated at 2.55pm BSTUpdated at 2.55pm BST
2.46pm BST14:462.46pm BST14:46
Lykketoft strikes a thoughtful tone and says: “We live in paradoxical and transformational times.” He argues that a “large share of humanity” enjoys the good life at the same time that the “follies of war and self-destruction” blight the Middle East and parts of Africa.Lykketoft strikes a thoughtful tone and says: “We live in paradoxical and transformational times.” He argues that a “large share of humanity” enjoys the good life at the same time that the “follies of war and self-destruction” blight the Middle East and parts of Africa.
2.38pm BST14:382.38pm BST14:38
Bruce Douglas in Brazil has sent this preview of the issues Dilma Rousseff is likely to deal with in her imminent speech:Bruce Douglas in Brazil has sent this preview of the issues Dilma Rousseff is likely to deal with in her imminent speech:
Last year Rousseff used her spot to campaign for the presidency in Brazil, and it’s likely she will use today’s opportunity to try to set a positive tone for her government’s actions – possibly with reference to her increased willingness to accept more Syrian refugees.Last year Rousseff used her spot to campaign for the presidency in Brazil, and it’s likely she will use today’s opportunity to try to set a positive tone for her government’s actions – possibly with reference to her increased willingness to accept more Syrian refugees.
The address will certainly provide a welcome break from her troubles at home. With her approval rating languishing in single digits, and the economy set for its worst recession in 25 years, the president has put a planned cabinet reshuffle on hold for her trip to New York.The address will certainly provide a welcome break from her troubles at home. With her approval rating languishing in single digits, and the economy set for its worst recession in 25 years, the president has put a planned cabinet reshuffle on hold for her trip to New York.
In her independence day address on 7 September, Rousseff said Brazil would welcome Syrian refugees “with open arms”. Since the start of the Syrian conflict, Brazil has taken in more than 2,000 refugees, more than any other country in Latin America.In her independence day address on 7 September, Rousseff said Brazil would welcome Syrian refugees “with open arms”. Since the start of the Syrian conflict, Brazil has taken in more than 2,000 refugees, more than any other country in Latin America.
Yesterday, Rousseff addressed the United Nations sustainable development summit, setting out Brazil’s goals to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 37% by 2025 and 43% by 2030, using 2005 as a baseline. In comparison to other developing countries, the Brazilian targets are impressive and were broadly welcomed by environmentalists.Yesterday, Rousseff addressed the United Nations sustainable development summit, setting out Brazil’s goals to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 37% by 2025 and 43% by 2030, using 2005 as a baseline. In comparison to other developing countries, the Brazilian targets are impressive and were broadly welcomed by environmentalists.
However, Brazil plans to reduce its emissions mainly by ending illegal deforestation and by reforesting 12 million hectares of land, rather than curbing its energy use. Critics point out that using 2005 as a baseline, a particularly bad year for deforestation, allows the government to present past successes as future triumphs resulting in unambitious targets.However, Brazil plans to reduce its emissions mainly by ending illegal deforestation and by reforesting 12 million hectares of land, rather than curbing its energy use. Critics point out that using 2005 as a baseline, a particularly bad year for deforestation, allows the government to present past successes as future triumphs resulting in unambitious targets.
Updated at 2.51pm BST Updated at 4.05pm BST
2.37pm BST14:372.37pm BST14:37
Ban finishes speaking, to light applause. Now Mogens Lykketoft, the president of the general assembly, has taken the mic.Ban finishes speaking, to light applause. Now Mogens Lykketoft, the president of the general assembly, has taken the mic.
Updated at 2.40pm BSTUpdated at 2.40pm BST
2.33pm BST14:332.33pm BST14:33
Ban complains about “democratic backsliding” and says that too many leaders try and stay in power beyond “constitutional limits”. He says that these leaders typically arrange petitions expressing “the will of the people” to justify their refusal to leave power.Ban complains about “democratic backsliding” and says that too many leaders try and stay in power beyond “constitutional limits”. He says that these leaders typically arrange petitions expressing “the will of the people” to justify their refusal to leave power.
He’s not naming any names, though.He’s not naming any names, though.
2.26pm BST14:262.26pm BST14:26
Ban mentions Syria and says five countries hold the key to ending the war there. He names the Russian Federation, US, Saudi Arabia, Iran and Turkey. “As long as one side will not compromise with the other, it’s futile to expect changes on the ground,” Ban says.Ban mentions Syria and says five countries hold the key to ending the war there. He names the Russian Federation, US, Saudi Arabia, Iran and Turkey. “As long as one side will not compromise with the other, it’s futile to expect changes on the ground,” Ban says.
He adds that most of the casualties in Syria - 250,000 plus since the civil war began 2011 - are being caused by air strikes. “Let me be clear. There is no military solution to this conflict,” he says.He adds that most of the casualties in Syria - 250,000 plus since the civil war began 2011 - are being caused by air strikes. “Let me be clear. There is no military solution to this conflict,” he says.
Updated at 2.28pm BSTUpdated at 2.28pm BST
2.24pm BST14:242.24pm BST14:24
Ban is now talking about the world’s refugee crisis. He says people are “on the move as never before” and adds: “Suffering today is at heights not seen in a generation.” The UN secretary general estimates that 100 million people require immediate humanitarian assistance.” At least 60 million have been forced to flee their home or their countries, Ban says.Ban is now talking about the world’s refugee crisis. He says people are “on the move as never before” and adds: “Suffering today is at heights not seen in a generation.” The UN secretary general estimates that 100 million people require immediate humanitarian assistance.” At least 60 million have been forced to flee their home or their countries, Ban says.
The UN has asked for $20bn to meet this year’s needs, six times the level a decade ago. He says member states have been “generous” but urges them - in particular Europe - to do more. He also says “we shouldn’t be building fences” - a reference to Hungary’s decision to erect razor wire on its borders with Serbia and Croatia.The UN has asked for $20bn to meet this year’s needs, six times the level a decade ago. He says member states have been “generous” but urges them - in particular Europe - to do more. He also says “we shouldn’t be building fences” - a reference to Hungary’s decision to erect razor wire on its borders with Serbia and Croatia.
2.15pm BST14:152.15pm BST14:15
Ban says the UN’s mission is to end extreme poverty by 2030, and to ensure “a life of dignity for all”. He says: “What counts now is translating promises on pieces of paper into action on the ground”. He then segues from English to French.Ban says the UN’s mission is to end extreme poverty by 2030, and to ensure “a life of dignity for all”. He says: “What counts now is translating promises on pieces of paper into action on the ground”. He then segues from English to French.
Updated at 2.17pm BSTUpdated at 2.17pm BST
2.09pm BST14:092.09pm BST14:09
Ban Ki-moon opens 70th session of UN general assemblyBan Ki-moon opens 70th session of UN general assembly
And we’re off! UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon is speaking. He’s showing the delegates a film called “Fanfare for all People”. Ban says the UN is the “indispensable home and hope of all humankind”.And we’re off! UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon is speaking. He’s showing the delegates a film called “Fanfare for all People”. Ban says the UN is the “indispensable home and hope of all humankind”.
Updated at 2.29pm BSTUpdated at 2.29pm BST
2.05pm BST14:052.05pm BST14:05
US secretary of state John Kerry has just arrived. He’s had a busy morning, starting with a meeting on Syria at 7.30am, and followed by talks at 9am with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.US secretary of state John Kerry has just arrived. He’s had a busy morning, starting with a meeting on Syria at 7.30am, and followed by talks at 9am with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.
2.03pm BST14:032.03pm BST14:03
President Dilma Rousseff of Brazil will address the UN assembly shortly as first speaker. By custom, Brazil always goes first. The New York Times explains that this tradition goes back to the earliest days of the United Nations:President Dilma Rousseff of Brazil will address the UN assembly shortly as first speaker. By custom, Brazil always goes first. The New York Times explains that this tradition goes back to the earliest days of the United Nations:
Lore has it that this distinction was given to Brazil as a consolation prize after President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s proposal to make Brazil a permanent member of the Security Council fell through.Lore has it that this distinction was given to Brazil as a consolation prize after President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s proposal to make Brazil a permanent member of the Security Council fell through.
In theory, each leader gets 15 minutes to talk, with the sessions running from 9am to 1pm, and from 3pm to 9pm. In practice, many leaders go on too long. Typically the morning session eats into the lunch-break, and the afternoon meetings can run well into the night.In theory, each leader gets 15 minutes to talk, with the sessions running from 9am to 1pm, and from 3pm to 9pm. In practice, many leaders go on too long. Typically the morning session eats into the lunch-break, and the afternoon meetings can run well into the night.
Updated at 2.06pm BSTUpdated at 2.06pm BST
1.46pm BST13:461.46pm BST13:46
Ahead of Vladimir Putin’s speech, Russia’s pro-Kremlin web army is tweeting the hashtag #PutinPeacemaker. One image accompanying it shows an Arnold Schwarzenegger-like Putin putting Obama in a headlock and tugging his ear.Ahead of Vladimir Putin’s speech, Russia’s pro-Kremlin web army is tweeting the hashtag #PutinPeacemaker. One image accompanying it shows an Arnold Schwarzenegger-like Putin putting Obama in a headlock and tugging his ear.
The Russian internet army is pushing #PutinPeacemaker ahead of his #UNGA speech. And this cartoon, for some reason. pic.twitter.com/7vBTZJtUMOThe Russian internet army is pushing #PutinPeacemaker ahead of his #UNGA speech. And this cartoon, for some reason. pic.twitter.com/7vBTZJtUMO
Putin’s many opponents, meanwhile, have poured scorn on the hashtag. The Kremlin parody account @DarthPutinKGB has this to say:Putin’s many opponents, meanwhile, have poured scorn on the hashtag. The Kremlin parody account @DarthPutinKGB has this to say:
If i'm late for my #UNGA speech it's cos i'm at the buffet filling up on food banned in Russia.If i'm late for my #UNGA speech it's cos i'm at the buffet filling up on food banned in Russia.
1.44pm BST13:441.44pm BST13:44
While we’re waiting for Brazil’s Dilma Rousseff to kick off the speeches, why not remind yourself of how dramatic Unga can be. Julian Borger has presented a video looking back at some of the most memorable moments from the lectern. They include Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev signalling an end to the cold war; Venezuela’s President Hugo Chávez describing George Bush as ‘the devil’; and Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad saying the US government orchestrated the 9/11 attacks.While we’re waiting for Brazil’s Dilma Rousseff to kick off the speeches, why not remind yourself of how dramatic Unga can be. Julian Borger has presented a video looking back at some of the most memorable moments from the lectern. They include Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev signalling an end to the cold war; Venezuela’s President Hugo Chávez describing George Bush as ‘the devil’; and Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad saying the US government orchestrated the 9/11 attacks.
Updated at 1.49pm BSTUpdated at 1.49pm BST
1.37pm BST13:371.37pm BST13:37
Richard Gowan, a senior policy advisor at the European Council on Foreign Relations, offers some frank words of advice to EU leaders attending today’s UN assembly.Richard Gowan, a senior policy advisor at the European Council on Foreign Relations, offers some frank words of advice to EU leaders attending today’s UN assembly.
The EU is in dismal shape at the moment, he suggests. But there is a silver lining: the next UN secretary general – Ban Ki-moon steps down at the end of next year – could be a European:The EU is in dismal shape at the moment, he suggests. But there is a silver lining: the next UN secretary general – Ban Ki-moon steps down at the end of next year – could be a European:
“Right now, the UN is a pretty miserable place to be a European leader. Putin overshadows you. The refugee crisis and Libya make you look mean and weak. The US wants you to send your soldiers on peacekeeping operations that you mistrust. But if you somehow make a good impression at the general assembly, people may start to say you should be the next secretary-general.“Right now, the UN is a pretty miserable place to be a European leader. Putin overshadows you. The refugee crisis and Libya make you look mean and weak. The US wants you to send your soldiers on peacekeeping operations that you mistrust. But if you somehow make a good impression at the general assembly, people may start to say you should be the next secretary-general.
“At the very least, that will be good for ego. But after this dose of the nasty reality of UN politics would you really want the job?”“At the very least, that will be good for ego. But after this dose of the nasty reality of UN politics would you really want the job?”
Updated at 1.38pm BSTUpdated at 1.38pm BST
1.27pm BST13:271.27pm BST13:27
You can follow our two correspondents in New York reporting from the UN general assembly – diplomatic editor @JulianBorger and @ChrisMcGreal. Our Moscow bureau chief Shaun Walker, @ShaunWalker7, will give instant reaction to Vladimir Putin’s speech, while our correspondent covering all things Iran, Saeed Kamali Dehghan, @SaeedKD, will write on Rouhani.You can follow our two correspondents in New York reporting from the UN general assembly – diplomatic editor @JulianBorger and @ChrisMcGreal. Our Moscow bureau chief Shaun Walker, @ShaunWalker7, will give instant reaction to Vladimir Putin’s speech, while our correspondent covering all things Iran, Saeed Kamali Dehghan, @SaeedKD, will write on Rouhani.
Just to get you in the mood, here’s a fun vodka drinking game compiled by the Washington Post to get you set for Putin’s address.Just to get you in the mood, here’s a fun vodka drinking game compiled by the Washington Post to get you set for Putin’s address.
Sit back, pull open a bottle of Russian Standard, and enjoy the ride …Sit back, pull open a bottle of Russian Standard, and enjoy the ride …
Would suggest vodka shot for each mention of @ARothWP Putin UNGA speech bingo but fear we'd all be dead by 10 mins in pic.twitter.com/OmTs6DoKf9Would suggest vodka shot for each mention of @ARothWP Putin UNGA speech bingo but fear we'd all be dead by 10 mins in pic.twitter.com/OmTs6DoKf9
Updated at 1.42pm BSTUpdated at 1.42pm BST
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Here is the full running order of the UN general assembly’s general debate (that’s quite a mouthful), which runs until 3 October . Today’s speakers are in the left column.Here is the full running order of the UN general assembly’s general debate (that’s quite a mouthful), which runs until 3 October . Today’s speakers are in the left column.
If you can’t read that rather small image, here’s a text list:If you can’t read that rather small image, here’s a text list:
Morning sessionMorning session
Afternoon sessionAfternoon session
Updated at 2.01pm BSTUpdated at 2.01pm BST
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You can watch live coverage from the UN general assembly on the UN’s webTV channel. The speeches haven’t started yet but UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon has arrived, and other leaders and delegations are walking in.You can watch live coverage from the UN general assembly on the UN’s webTV channel. The speeches haven’t started yet but UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon has arrived, and other leaders and delegations are walking in.
1.14pm BST13:141.14pm BST13:14
Mark Rice-OxleyMark Rice-Oxley
This year’s Unga (rhymes with ‘hunger’) comes ahead of the UN’s 70th birthday next month, a pivotal moment that is shaping up as a make-or-break for reform of the creaking world body.This year’s Unga (rhymes with ‘hunger’) comes ahead of the UN’s 70th birthday next month, a pivotal moment that is shaping up as a make-or-break for reform of the creaking world body.
The Guardian’s series on UN failings – such as its peacekeeping missions, its impasse over Syria and its dilatory response to Ebola – has intensified calls for wholesale changes to the way the ageing institution organises itself and the world around it.The Guardian’s series on UN failings – such as its peacekeeping missions, its impasse over Syria and its dilatory response to Ebola – has intensified calls for wholesale changes to the way the ageing institution organises itself and the world around it.
And if you are sitting back following the speeches and wondering ‘what does it all mean for ME’? we have devised a cheeky 30-second tool for you to answer that very question.And if you are sitting back following the speeches and wondering ‘what does it all mean for ME’? we have devised a cheeky 30-second tool for you to answer that very question.
Updated at 1.19pm BSTUpdated at 1.19pm BST
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Welcome to our UN general assembly live blogWelcome to our UN general assembly live blog
Luke HardingLuke Harding
Welcome to our live coverage of ‘Massive Monday’, as a host of world leaders prepare to speak at the 70th UN general assembly in New York. Over the best part of a week, the heads of state – some 150 of them – will argue, mingle, and debate, addressing a global and a domestic audience. This morning’s heavyweight session features speeches from President Barack Obama, Vladimir Putin, China’s Xi Jinping, Iran’s Hassan Rouhani and France’s Francois Hollande.Welcome to our live coverage of ‘Massive Monday’, as a host of world leaders prepare to speak at the 70th UN general assembly in New York. Over the best part of a week, the heads of state – some 150 of them – will argue, mingle, and debate, addressing a global and a domestic audience. This morning’s heavyweight session features speeches from President Barack Obama, Vladimir Putin, China’s Xi Jinping, Iran’s Hassan Rouhani and France’s Francois Hollande.
The most intriguing encounter takes place on the sidelines this evening, when Obama and Putin meet for the first time in nearly a year. It comes amid a fresh diplomatic push to resolve the war in Syria and a Russian military build-up inside the country apparently designed to shore up President Bashar al-Assad, Moscow’s faltering ally.The most intriguing encounter takes place on the sidelines this evening, when Obama and Putin meet for the first time in nearly a year. It comes amid a fresh diplomatic push to resolve the war in Syria and a Russian military build-up inside the country apparently designed to shore up President Bashar al-Assad, Moscow’s faltering ally.
In his speech this morning – his first to the general assembly since 2005 – Putin will present Russia as an indispensable world power. He is likely to argue that only Assad can defeat Islamic State “terrorists”. On Sunday David Cameron signalled new flexibility, dropping his insistence that peace in Syria can only be achieved if Assad steps down.In his speech this morning – his first to the general assembly since 2005 – Putin will present Russia as an indispensable world power. He is likely to argue that only Assad can defeat Islamic State “terrorists”. On Sunday David Cameron signalled new flexibility, dropping his insistence that peace in Syria can only be achieved if Assad steps down.
Putin is also keen to move the conversation on from Ukraine, and from Russia’s covert war in the east of the country and its 2014 annexation of Crimea. The US and EU responded by imposing sanctions. The White House says Obama will raise Ukraine in his face to face with Putin. The Kremlin says the subject will only come up if time allows.Putin is also keen to move the conversation on from Ukraine, and from Russia’s covert war in the east of the country and its 2014 annexation of Crimea. The US and EU responded by imposing sanctions. The White House says Obama will raise Ukraine in his face to face with Putin. The Kremlin says the subject will only come up if time allows.
There will be no summit today between Obama and Rouhani. But this week’s 70th anniversary session comes after a qualitative improvement in relations between Tehran and Washington and a deal on Iran’s nuclear programme clinched in July. Rouhani has said Iran is willing to free three Americans held in its prisons in a swap for Iranian citizens held for breaking sanctions.There will be no summit today between Obama and Rouhani. But this week’s 70th anniversary session comes after a qualitative improvement in relations between Tehran and Washington and a deal on Iran’s nuclear programme clinched in July. Rouhani has said Iran is willing to free three Americans held in its prisons in a swap for Iranian citizens held for breaking sanctions.
The US president will meet Cuba’s leader Raúl Castro, who will be addressing the UN general assembly for the first time. Relations were normalised this year after a 54-year hiatus, with the US embassy in Havana re-opening in August. A scheduled handshake between Castro and Obama will show off the virtue of diplomacy.The US president will meet Cuba’s leader Raúl Castro, who will be addressing the UN general assembly for the first time. Relations were normalised this year after a 54-year hiatus, with the US embassy in Havana re-opening in August. A scheduled handshake between Castro and Obama will show off the virtue of diplomacy.