In a surprising move, the United States voted against a United Nations General Assembly resolution condemning Russia’s war against Ukraine. This marks a major shift in US policy, putting Washington at odds with its European allies. The vote took place on the third anniversary of full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia.
The General Assembly resolution, backed by Ukraine and European nations, demanded Russia’s immediate and unconditional withdrawal from Ukrainian territory. The resolution passed with 93 votes in favor.
The US, instead of supporting its allies, introduced a rival resolution. The American proposal did not call Russia the aggressor or affirm Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Instead, it urged a swift end to the war and emphasized the UN’s role in maintaining peace.
Security Council Vote Deepens the Divide
Later, at the UN Security Council, the US presented the same resolution. It passed with 10 votes in favor, including from Russia, while five European members abstained. Attempts to strengthen the language against Russia failed due to Russian vetoes.
Russia’s UN Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya praised the US resolution. He called it a positive step toward a peaceful settlement. “The text we passed is not ideal, but it is a first attempt to take a constructive approach,” he said.
US charge d’affaires Dorothy Shea defended the resolution. She said it was the Security Council’s first action toward ending the conflict. “This resolution puts us on the path to peace,” Shea said. “It is a first step, but a crucial one.”
European Allies Strongly Oppose US Move
European diplomats reacted with strong criticism. French Ambassador Nicolas de Rivière warned that rewarding aggression threatens global security. “There will be no peace and security anywhere if aggressions are rewarded,” he said.
UK Ambassador Barbara Woodward said any peace deal must recognize Russia’s role as the aggressor. “There can be no equivalence between Russia and Ukraine,” she said. “This Council must be clear on the war’s origins.”
Woodward emphasized that only Ukraine could decide the terms of peace. “What, how, and on what terms this war ends can only be decided by negotiations with Ukraine,” she said.
Trump Administration’s Shift on Ukraine
The US vote came as the Trump administration continued direct talks with Russia to end the war. President Donald Trump has increased pressure on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Meanwhile, European leaders have rushed to adjust to Washington’s changing stance.
French President Emmanuel Macron met with Trump at the White House to discuss the situation. European nations now face uncertainty over US support for Ukraine.
At the General Assembly, Shea urged countries to support the US resolution. She called for the withdrawal of Ukraine’s proposal, arguing it would divide the UN instead of uniting members for peace.
The US ultimately abstained from its own resolution at the General Assembly. This happened after amendments were added to strengthen the language against Russia.
Global Implications of the US Vote
The US decision to vote alongside Russia signals a significant policy shift. For years, Washington had led global efforts to isolate Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine. Now, the US is advocating a more neutral approach.
The move leaves European allies frustrated and uncertain about future US commitments. Ukraine, which has relied on Western support, faces growing diplomatic challenges.
The vote also raises questions about the UN’s ability to address the war. With divisions deepening, efforts to reach a peace deal remain complicated. The global response to the war may shift as the US redefines its role in the conflict.
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