In a recent session, Russia exercised its veto power in the United Nations Security Council to block a draft resolution aimed at protecting civilians amid the ongoing conflict in Sudan. This move comes in the face of widespread international support for the resolution, which called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the commencement of good faith dialogue between the conflicting parties.
The conflict in Sudan poses severe risks to civilians, with intense clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces leading to thousands of casualties and significant displacement. The draft resolution sought to address the intensifying humanitarian crisis in the region, highlighting the urgent need for a peaceful resolution.
Russia justified its veto by arguing that the draft was one-sided and failed to account for the broader complexities of Sudan’s internal conflict. Dmitry A. Polyanskiy, Russia’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, asserted that the draft improperly allocated responsibility for civilian protection and border control, emphasizing that these issues should be addressed solely by Sudan’s government. Polyanskiy further argued that the resolution could undermine ongoing efforts to establish a comprehensive dialogue between involved parties. His statement is cited in further detail here.
The veto has met with criticism from various human rights organizations and member states who consider civilian protection a fundamental aspect of international law. United Kingdom Foreign Secretary David Lammy voiced his condemnation, stating that Russia’s action is a disgrace and portrays Russia’s true intentions on the global stage. Lammy’s full remarks are quoted in the original report, which details the reaction from the UK and other nations supportive of the resolution.
Instruments such as the Geneva Conventions underscore the importance of minimizing harm to civilians during conflict, a principle that underpinned the proposed resolution. Supporters argued that its provisions were in line with these international legal obligations and aimed to mitigate the humanitarian impact of the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
The situation in Sudan remains dire, with millions displaced and critical humanitarian aid access severely hindered by continued fighting. International organizations, therefore, continue to express their growing concern regarding the crisis’ escalation and its impacts on vulnerable populations. Additional insights into the humanitarian challenges on the ground can be read here and here.