Ukraine Denounces Russia’s UN Security Council Presidency as Outrageous

Ukraine condemns Russia’s presidency of the UN Security Council as a “slap in the face” amid international outrage, particularly from Western countries. Ukrainian officials call for vigilance against potential abuses of this role. Criticism extends to Russia’s status as a permanent member, with the United States and Baltic states expressing serious concerns over the implications of Russia’s leadership. The overall sentiment emphasizes the need for accountability in the context of ongoing military aggression.

Ukraine has condemned Russia’s presidency of the UN Security Council for April 2023, describing it as a “slap in the face” to the international community. This reaction comes amid heightened tensions between Russia and Western nations, stemming from Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba criticized the situation, urging Security Council members to prevent any misuse of Russia’s presidential role, labeling the country an “outlaw on the UNSC.”

Russia assumes the presidency following a rotation among the Security Council’s 15 member states, despite fierce backlash from Ukraine and its allies. Ukraine has previously called for Russia’s removal from the Council since it last presided over it in February 2022—immediately before its military incursion into Ukraine. Although Russia will set the agenda, its influence on decisions may be limited.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is slated to lead a UN Security Council meeting on “effective multilateralism” and a debate about the Middle East during Russia’s presidency. A UN diplomat highlighted that any abuse of this role would prompt a response, emphasizing the critical need to focus on resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine rather than the intricacies of the presidency.

The United States has expressed discontent with Russia’s ongoing permanent membership on the Security Council, stating that a country that violates the UN Charter should not hold such a position. White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre remarked that the presidency is largely ceremonial but underscores the troubling circumstances of Russia’s actions. Baltic states also articulated their unease about Russia’s leadership, with Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania voicing strong concerns during recent Security Council discussions.

In a light-hearted yet pointed remark, Lithuania’s Foreign Minister congratulated Russia on its presidency, sarcastically anticipating rigorous discussions regarding Ukraine’s naval proposals. Additional comments from the Lithuanian foreign ministry labeled the UN Security Council under Russian leadership as the “InsecurityCouncil.” US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, voiced skepticism about Russia’s conduct in the presidency, expecting them to potentially engage in disinformation campaigns against Ukraine and its allies.

The ongoing outrage regarding Russia’s presidency of the UN Security Council highlights the significant discontent among Ukraine and its allies, reflecting a broader struggle over international norms and accountability amid conflict. Condemnations from various nations underscore concerns about Russia’s actions and the implications of its leadership roles. The tension reiterates the complex dynamics within the UN, as members grapple with the influence and responsibilities of a nation embroiled in international conflict.

Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com