Russia Vetoes UN Ceasefire Resolution for Sudan Amid Outcry

Russia vetoed a UK-led UN resolution for a ceasefire in Sudan, prompting outrage from the UK and US. The civil war has caused tens of thousands of deaths and displaced over 11 million individuals. Despite widespread support for the resolution among UN member states, the veto highlights sovereignty issues and geopolitical tensions complicating humanitarian efforts in Sudan.

In a heated session at the United Nations, Russia exercised its veto power against a UK-supported resolution aimed at establishing a ceasefire in the ongoing civil war in Sudan. This move drew sharp criticism from the UK and US, with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy labeling the veto as “a disgrace.” The conflict, which has persisted for 19 months, has claimed the lives of tens of thousands and displaced over 11 million people, resulting in what aid organizations describe as the worst humanitarian crisis worldwide. Activists have expressed frustration with the UN’s response to the conflict. The civil war in Sudan erupted in April of the previous year, following a power struggle between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The resolution proposed jointly by the UK and Sierra Leone called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urged both parties to engage in negotiations for a national ceasefire. It included a call for the protection of civilians, highlighting RSF attacks in Darfur and other regions, yet failed to incorporate certain clauses requested by the Sudanese government. The vote saw all but one Security Council member state in favor, but the Russian veto prevented its passage. Lammy challenged the Russian delegate on the urgency of action, emphasizing the ongoing violence affecting Sudanese women and children. US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield also criticized Russia for obstructing efforts aimed at addressing the dire humanitarian situation, alleging that Russia plays both sides for political gain. In response, Russian representative Dmitry Polyanskiy accused the UK of infringing on Sudan’s sovereignty, branding their resolution as an attempt to intervene in Sudanese matters. Sudan’s ambassador subsequently stated that key provisions, including condemnation of UAE support for the RSF and recognition of the RSF as terrorists, were omitted from the draft. Both the Sudanese army and RSF have faced allegations of human rights violations potentially amounting to war crimes.

The civil war in Sudan is rooted in a power struggle that emerged between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces, a formidable paramilitary group, which erupted in April of the previous year. Driven by political motivations, this conflict has evolved into a humanitarian catastrophe, displacing millions and exacerbating food shortages. The international response to the crisis has been scrutinized, especially the perceived inadequacy of the UN in facilitating timely interventions to protect civilians amid escalating violence. The veto by Russia highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions that complicate peace efforts in the region.

The veto by Russia against the UN resolution for a ceasefire in Sudan underscores significant geopolitical rifts and the complexities of international diplomacy regarding the crisis. As millions suffer from the conflict and humanitarian conditions deteriorate, the divergent responses from global powers such as the UK and USA against Russia’s stance reflect the deepening challenges in resolving the conflict. The outcome of this dispute may impact future negotiations and efforts to achieve lasting peace in Sudan while addressing the urgent humanitarian needs of its people.

Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk