Ukraine has condemned Russia’s presidency of the UN Security Council as “a slap in the face,” reflecting outrage from the West over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Ukrainian officials urge the Council to thwart any misuse of this position, while US and Baltic state representatives voice similar concerns about Russia’s influence and actions. The situation raises significant questions about the credibility of the Security Council amid ongoing conflicts.
Ukraine has denounced Russia’s presidency of the UN Security Council for April 2023 as “a slap in the face,” echoing the sentiments of various Western nations. This rotation of presidency occurs amidst deteriorating relations between Moscow and the West, primarily due to Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba expressed discontent, urging Security Council members to prevent any potential misuse of Russia’s position, labeling the nation an “outlaw” within this esteemed body.
Russia, which last presided over the council in February 2022, now has the responsibility of setting the agenda despite being perceived as lacking significant influence in decision-making. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is scheduled to lead discussions on “effective multilateralism” and hold a debate concerning the Middle East later in the month.
In response, United States officials have voiced objections to Russia’s ongoing membership in the Security Council, emphasizing that a nation violating the UN Charter should not have a role in such a pivotal institution. White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre remarked that while Russia’s presidency is largely ceremonial, it undermines the integrity of the Council.
Concerns were also raised by the Baltic states. Estonia’s UN envoy warned that the timing of Russia’s presidency, coinciding with the anniversary of the Bucha massacre, casts a shadow on the Security Council’s credibility. Additionally, Lithuania’s Foreign Minister mockingly congratulated Russia, hinting at the irony of its leadership amidst an ongoing war.
US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, expressed skepticism about Russia’s leadership, anticipating that it may exploit its position to propagate disinformation against Ukraine and its allies. She reaffirmed the US commitment to addressing Russia’s actions regarding human rights violations and the war crimes in Ukraine.
In summary, Ukraine’s condemnation of Russia’s presidency at the UN Security Council highlights the tensions that have arisen from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The backlash from Ukraine and Western nations underscores the belief that a country engaged in such aggressive actions lacks legitimacy in a diplomatic forum. As Russia assumes this nominally ceremonial role, global actors remain vigilant to ensure accountability and confront potential abuses of power in international relations.
Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com
