The US has sided with Russia in recent UN votes regarding Ukraine, opposing a European-drafted resolution condemning Russia, and backing a US resolution calling for an end to the conflict without criticizing Russia. Key allies UK and France abstained from the latter vote, reflecting strains in transatlantic relations. The US’s actions signify a significant shift in its approach to the war in Ukraine.
The United States has aligned itself with Russia during two recent votes at the United Nations, coinciding with the third anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Initially, both nations opposed a European-led resolution condemning Russia’s actions, which was subsequently passed by the General Assembly. Later, they supported a US-drafted resolution aimed at ending the conflict without calling out Russia’s involvement.
The Security Council approved the unamended US resolution with 10 votes, while key allies like the UK and France chose to abstain after unsuccessful attempts to introduce changes to the wording. This divergence was highlighted during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to President Trump, reflecting the shifting dynamics of transatlantic relations regarding the Ukrainian conflict.
During the General Assembly voting, US diplomats advocated for a limited resolution that mourned the casualties of the “Russia-Ukraine conflict” but omitted direct condemnation of Russia. European diplomats proposed a more comprehensive resolution that denounced the invasion and reaffirmed support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, garnering 93 votes. Remarkably, the US not only voted against the European resolution alongside countries such as Russia and North Korea but also abstained from the vote on the US resolution after revisions were made to incorporate language supporting Ukraine.
America’s acting envoy to the UN characterized the adopted US resolution as a forward-looking statement focused on expediting an end to the war. Historically, the US’s current stance contrasts sharply with that of its European allies, as Russia’s veto power has hindered progress in the Security Council. Consequently, the General Assembly has become the primary venue for discussing the war, despite its resolutions lacking binding authority on member states when compared to those issued by the Security Council.
In summary, the United States’ recent actions at the UN reflect a significant shift in its approach to the Ukrainian conflict, as it has diverged from traditional European allies by siding with Russia during key resolutions. The tensions within the transatlantic alliance are evident, particularly as the US navigates complex diplomatic waters. The ongoing deadlock in the Security Council continues to push reliance on the General Assembly, highlighting the challenges of international diplomacy in this protracted conflict.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
