In a stunning reversal, the US voted alongside Russia at the UN, opposing a resolution condemning Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine—marking a major shift in Washington’s stance on the war.
New York [US], February 25: In an unexpected move, the United States voted against a United Nations General Assembly resolution condemning Russia’s war on Ukraine, aligning itself with Moscow rather than its European allies. The decision, which coincided with the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, marks a significant shift in US foreign policy, CNN reported.
The resolution, backed by Ukraine and European nations, ultimately passed with 93 votes in favor. It expressed “concern over the ongoing invasion”, highlighted its devastating global consequences, and called for an “early cessation of hostilities and a peaceful resolution to the war.”
However, the US introduced a rival resolution, which notably did not identify Russia as the aggressor or reaffirm Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty. Instead, it urged both sides to end the war swiftly and work towards lasting peace.
A Shocking Realignment
The US decision reflects the Trump administration’s recent diplomatic outreach to Moscow, as President Donald Trump intensifies his criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and seeks alternative peace negotiations.
Before the vote, Ambassador Dorothy Shea, the Charge d’Affaires at the US Mission to the UN, defended the US stance, urging all nations—including Ukraine and Russia—to back Washington’s alternative resolution.
“A simple, historic statement from the General Assembly that looks forward, not backwards. A resolution focused on one, simple idea: Ending the war. A path to peace is possible,” Shea said.
She further justified Washington’s opposition to the Ukraine-backed resolution, stating:
“That is why we cannot support Ukraine’s resolution, and we urge its withdrawal in favor of a strong statement committing us to end the war and work towards lasting peace.”
UN Vote Sparks Global Reactions
The US ultimately abstained from voting on its own resolution after amendments were introduced to strengthen language against Russia and reaffirm Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
This move has triggered shockwaves across the international community, with critics viewing it as a drastic shift in US support for Ukraine and a sign of potential policy realignment under the Trump administration.
Meanwhile, the US is expected to introduce the same draft resolution at the UN Security Council later on Monday.
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US-UN vote, Russia-Ukraine war, Donald Trump Ukraine policy, UN resolution, US foreign policy, Ukraine conflict, Russia sanctions, Trump administration, NATO, global diplomacy