The resolution tabled by the United States, which omitted mention of Russian aggression, only passed after a majority of Member States voted to add EU-led amendments which led to the US abstaining on it own motion and voting against the Ukrainian text.
The Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine, Betsa Mariana (centre at podium), addresses the media outside the Security Council at UN Headquarters in New York.
Security Council breakthrough
Attention turned to the Security Council in the afternoon where a vote was due to be held on the United States resolution.
As before, there were attempts to add amendments supported by several western European countries, referring to a “full-scale invasion” by Russia and Ukraine’s territorial integrity – and proposals from Russia to acknowledge the “deeply rooted reasons” for the conflict and lasting peace in both Ukraine and Russia.
But the amendments were voted down and the resolution was passed without any changes by the 15-member Council (10 in favour, zero against and five abstentions).
Speaking after the vote, US Ambassador Dorothy Shea said Washington sincerely appreciated Council members’ support saying that it “puts us on the path to peace.”
Undermining international foundations
After a pause in proceedings, Rosemary DiCarlo, the head of UN Peacekeeping and Political Affairs, briefed the 15 Council members on the current situation in Ukraine.
She said that the Russian invasion “undermined the very foundations of the international order,” and reminded the delegates that, since 24 February 2022, at least 12,654 Ukrainian civilians, including 673 children, have been killed.
Referring to the Security Council resolution adopted earlier in the Council, Ms. DiCarlo insisted that peace in Ukraine must be “just, sustainable and comprehensive, in line with the Charter of the United Nations, international law, and resolutions of the General Assembly”, including those adopted on Monday morning during the General Assembly emergency special session.
Find out more in our comprehensive live coverage of the day here.