Russia vetoed a UN Security Council resolution aimed at ending hostilities in Sudan, where conflict has persisted since April 2023. The resolution, backed by Britain and Sierra Leone, sought to facilitate a ceasefire and ensure humanitarian aid access but faced criticism from Western officials and defense from Russia over perceived biases in the draft. The situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate with a severe humanitarian crisis affecting millions.
On November 18, 2024, Russia exercised its veto power against a United Nations Security Council resolution that aimed to halt hostilities in Sudan amid ongoing conflict between rival military factions since April 2023. The draft resolution, proposed by the United Kingdom and Sierra Leone, urged an immediate cessation of violence and the initiation of discussions for a national ceasefire. During the meeting, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy criticized Russia’s opposition, expressing his frustration at the lack of a united front from the council.
Both the UK and the United States have been vocal in condemning Russia’s stance, emphasizing the humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict, which has led to significant civilian casualties and massive displacement. Russia’s deputy UN ambassador countered these claims, suggesting that the resolution carried a post-colonial bias and defending the actions of the Sudanese government. Despite previous abstentions, Russia’s recent alignment with General Al Burhan’s military camp has shifted its position on this issue. The continuation of hostilities has severely impacted civilians in Sudan, exacerbating food shortages and human rights abuses, including sexual violence.
The conflict in Sudan erupted in April 2023, involving a struggle for power between the Sudanese Armed Forces led by General Abdel Fattah Al Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces under General Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. The violence has resulted in tens of thousands of fatalities and displaced over 11 million individuals. UN efforts to mediate an end to the violence have faced significant obstacles, particularly due to geopolitical divisions among Security Council permanent members, notably with Russia’s opposition and recent alignment with one faction of the conflict. The humanitarian situation remains dire, with millions facing food insecurity and calls for better protection of civilians and access for humanitarian aid.
In summary, Russia’s veto of the Security Council resolution on Sudan represents a critical setback in international efforts to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis stemming from the conflict. The tensions between geopolitical interests and the urgent need for humanitarian intervention are starkly illustrated by the responses of both Western and Russian officials. The situation in Sudan remains perilous, with significant implications for millions of civilians caught in the violence. It remains to be seen how the international community will navigate these challenges moving forward.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
