Ukraine Critiques Russia’s UN Security Council Presidency Amid Conflict
Ukraine denounces Russia’s presidency of the UN Security Council as a serious affront, joining Western concerns amidst ongoing conflict. Key officials call for vigilance against potential misuse of power, emphasizing the symbolic significance of Russia’s leadership role.
Ukraine has voiced strong disapproval regarding Russia’s presidency of the UN Security Council for April 2023, labeling it a “slap in the face” to the international community. This presidency rotation occurs amidst deteriorated relations with the West, largely due to Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba emphasized the need for current members to prevent any Russian exploitation of this role, denouncing Russia as an “outlaw on the UNSC.”
In the context of its presidency, Russia seeks to steer discussions, including a meeting on “effective multilateralism” headed by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. The Security Council diplomat indicated that any misuse of the presidency would provoke a response, yet underscored that the major concern remains the war in Ukraine and the need for resolution.
U.S. officials have echoed Ukraine’s sentiments, with White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre asserting that a nation that infringes the UN Charter and invades others holds no rightful place on the Security Council. The presidency is regarded as largely ceremonial, yet carries significant implications given the ongoing conflict. Baltic states have similarly expressed their apprehension regarding Russia’s leadership role.
Estonia’s UN envoy highlighted the irony of Russia assuming the presidency on the anniversary of the Bucha massacre, calling the situation “shameful” and detrimental to the Security Council’s credibility. Lithuanian officials also voiced skepticism, predicting energetic debates pertinent to ongoing tensions. U.S. Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield urged vigilance against potential Russian propaganda during its presidency, reaffirming the United States’ commitment to highlighting Russia’s violations in Ukraine.
The ongoing situation concerning Russia’s presidency of the UN Security Council has ignited widespread criticism from Ukraine and Western nations, including serious concerns about Russia’s role in international affairs. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister has called for vigilance against potential abuses of power by Russia in the council, while U.S. and Baltic state officials have reinforced apprehensions about the implications of this presidency amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com
