Guterres: Global conflicts becoming ‘testing grounds’ for AI weaponization

NEW YORK, United States (MNTV) – UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that artificial intelligence (AI) is already reshaping global security, with recent wars serving as “testing grounds” for AI-powered targeting, autonomy, and cyberattacks.

“AI is no longer a distant horizon, it is here, transforming daily life, the information space, and the global economy at breathtaking speed,” Guterres told the UN Security Council during an open debate on AI and international peace and security.

He cautioned that AI-enabled cyberattacks can disrupt or destroy critical infrastructure within minutes. “The question is not whether AI will influence international peace and security, but how we will shape that influence,” he said. “Used responsibly, AI can strengthen prevention and protection. But without guardrails, it can also be weaponized.”

“Innovation must serve humanity, not undermine it,” he added, stressing the need for responsible governance.

Guterres pointed to UN initiatives, including the creation of an Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and an annual Global Dialogue on AI Governance. He said an open call for nominations to the panel would be launched soon, urging states to put forward diverse experts and provide resources for timely, science-based assessments.

He outlined four priorities for the international community:

Safeguarding human control over weapons of mass destruction, insisting that “humanity’s fate cannot be left to an algorithm.”
Creating coherent global regulatory frameworks to govern AI from design to deployment and decommissioning, with military uses clearly regulated.
Protecting information integrity, through transparency, verified attribution of sources, and safeguards to stop AI from spreading disinformation and inciting violence.
Closing the AI capacity gap, ensuring the technology supports sustainable development and peace rather than widening inequalities.