UN Backs Resolution Calling for Russia To Leave Ukraine

Washington D.C./24.02.23/Turan: The Biden Administration on Thursday welcomed the UN resolution that calls for Russia to end hostilities in Ukraine and withdraw its forces, sending a strong message on the eve of the first anniversary of the invasion that Moscow's aggression must stop, TURAN's Washington correspondent reports.

The resolution was approved at the General Assembly by member nations on a 141-7 vote. The countries opposing the resolution included Belarus, Mali, Nicaragua, Russia, Syria, North Korea and Eritrea. 32 countries abstained from the vote, including China, South Africa and India. Azerbaijan was absent.

"By overwhelmingly voting in favor of the UN General Assembly resolution today, these nations stood firmly in support of the rules-based international order, and spoke with one voice to demand Russia’s full, immediate, and unconditional withdrawal from all of Ukraine’s territory," U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan said in a statement.

He went on to add, "A year into this conflict, the international community remains steadfast in upholding our shared values, including the principles of sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity that are the foundation of the UN Charter, and accountability for violations of international law, including Russia’s war of aggression. Today’s vote was an overwhelming demonstration of support for Ukraine — and a clear defense or freedom for people everywhere."

The resolution is purely symbolic, but it allows Ukraine and allies to build a consensus against Russia and to sway international opinion.

Alex Raufoglu