US Abstains from UN Resolutions Condemning Russia's Invasion of Ukraine
In a dramatic shift, the US under President Trump abstained from UN resolutions condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This follows Trump's decision to open direct negotiations with Russia, excluding Ukraine and its European allies.
The US joined Russia in voting against a European-backed Ukrainian resolution demanding Russia's withdrawal. The US then abstained from voting on its own competing resolution after Europeans amended it to explicitly identify Russia as the aggressor.
This move reflects growing tensions between the US and Ukraine. Trump has criticized Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and falsely accused Kyiv of starting the war.
The General Assembly voted 93-18 with 65 abstentions to approve the Ukrainian resolution, showing some diminished support for Ukraine compared to previous votes.
The US-drafted resolution, which acknowledged the loss of life but never mentioned Russia's aggression, was amended by France to include references to Russia's invasion and Ukraine's sovereignty. It passed 93-8 with 73 abstentions.
Both resolutions were supported by US allies in Asia, Canada, Mexico, and most European countries, with the exception of Hungary.
Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Mariana Betsa emphasized her country's right to self-defense following Russia's invasion, which violates the UN Charter.
US Deputy Ambassador Dorothy Shea acknowledged that previous UN resolutions condemning Russia have failed to stop the war. She argued that the US resolution, which implores a swift end to the conflict, is a crucial first step towards peace.
The General Assembly has become the most important UN body on Ukraine due to Russia's veto power in the Security Council. It has approved half a dozen resolutions since the start of the war in February 2022.
The Ukrainian resolution adopted on Monday reiterates the need to implement previous resolutions, including the demand for Russia's immediate and unconditional withdrawal from Ukraine. It also reaffirms the assembly's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and calls for a peaceful resolution to the war.
16 Comments
Loubianka
This is a dangerous precedent that could lead to more conflicts around the world. The US needs to take a stand against aggression and defend international law.
Eugene Alta
Shame on Trump for abandoning our allies and siding with a dictator. This is a stain on American history.
Loubianka
The US should be leading the charge against Russia, not sitting on the sidelines. This is a weak and pathetic response to a major global crisis.
BuggaBoom
This is a betrayal of everything the US stands for. We cannot turn a blind eye to this blatant violation of human rights and international law.
Donatello
This is a humanitarian crisis, and the US needs to do more to help the Ukrainian people. Abstaining from these resolutions sends the wrong message.
Matzomaster
Trump's decision is a courageous move. He is standing up to the deep state and the war mongers.
Karamba
The media is twisting Trump's words to portray him as weak. Don't believe their lies!
Habibi
Trump's motivations are suspect. Is he trying to curry favor with Putin for personal gain?
Muchacho
Finally, a president who is putting America first! Trump's decision to abstain from these resolutions shows that he is not beholden to foreign interests.
Coccinella
We cannot let Trump's appeasement of Putin stand. We need to raise our voices and demand that the US government take stronger action against Russia.
Africa
The US should not be taking sides in this conflict. We should remain neutral and focus on our own national interests.
Comandante
These UN resolutions are nothing more than symbolic gestures. They will not stop the war, and they are not worth sacrificing American lives for.
Muchacha
How can the US abstain from condemning a clear act of war? This is a blatant disregard for international law and the UN Charter.
Bella Ciao
Trump's decision to abstain is a sign of his respect for the sovereignty of other nations. He is not forcing Ukraine to do anything against their will.
Comandante
The US should not be dragged into another pointless war. Trump is right to focus on our own national interests.
Raphael
Trump is playing a long game. He knows that peace can only be achieved through negotiation, not by taking sides in a war.