US Aligns with Russia at UN Amid Ukraine Conflict Commemoration

The US has sided with Russia in two recent UN votes on the Ukraine conflict, marking a shift in policy from prior administrations. The US opposed a European-drafted resolution condemning Russia yet supported a US resolution for peace that lacked criticism towards Moscow. Key US allies abstained from the vote, illustrating growing tensions between the US and its European partners.

The United States has aligned with Russia in two recent UN votes commemorating the third anniversary of the conflict in Ukraine, marking a notable shift in policy from previous administrations. In the first instance, both nations opposed a resolution drafted by Europe condemning Russia’s invasion and affirming Ukraine’s territorial rights, which was ultimately approved by the UN General Assembly (UNGA).

Later, they supported a US-proposed resolution in the UN Security Council calling for an end to hostilities without directly criticizing Russia. Despite the resolution’s passage, key US allies such as the UK and France abstained, expressing their concerns over the US’s direction. This discord was exemplified during French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent visit to President Donald Trump at the White House, aiming to reconcile differences over the war.

During discussions at the UNGA, US diplomats advocated for a motion that primarily expressed condolences for casualties in the conflict, rather than attributing blame to Russia. Meanwhile, European diplomats introduced a more explicit resolution denouncing the invasion and reaffirming Ukraine’s sovereignty—this measure received overwhelming support with 93 votes, yet the US voted against it.

In another significant vote, the UN Security Council passed the US resolution after some amendments included supporting Ukraine, leading the US to abstain. Such occurrences are rare and highlight the growing divide between the US and its European allies amid the ongoing conflict, fueled by Russia’s veto power within the Security Council, which has hampered resolution efforts since the invasion began three years ago.

The US’s recent decisions at the UN regarding the Ukraine conflict indicate a departure from traditional transatlantic solidarity, aligning with Russia on specific resolutions while abstaining or opposing actions that condemn its aggression. This behavior reflects deeper tensions in international alliances related to the response to the ongoing war, emphasizing the challenges of maintaining a unified front against such aggression. The limitations of UN mechanisms due to the Security Council’s structure further complicate diplomatic efforts. As the conflict persists, the role of the UN will remain crucial in navigating these challenges, but the implications of US policy shifts and geopolitical dynamics are significant for future international relations and security in Europe.

Original Source: www.bbc.com