Police in New York are stepping up security as world leaders gather to attend meetings at the United Nations.

Leaders from more than 120 countries will make speeches from Tuesday at the UN General Assembly.

Roads around the UN headquarters are blocked, and armed police are deployed on the streets.

Trucks are lined up in front of the Trump Tower where US President Donald Trump is staying to prevent the entry of suspicious vehicles.

Shoppers were forced to make a detour as the building is located on Fifth Avenue, known for its many luxury stores.

A tourist couple from Japan said they were surprised to see that security had suddenly been ramped up in just a few days, and were told to find an alternate route back to their hotel.

A man who lives in the neighborhood said it's inconvenient, but it's necessary for securing safety.

NHK