UN Rejects US Resolution on Ukraine War, Approves EU-Backed Proposal

In a significant diplomatic development, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) rejected a US-backed resolution calling for an end to the war in Ukraine without mentioning Russia’s role. Instead, the assembly approved a European-backed Ukrainian resolution demanding Moscow’s immediate withdrawal from Ukrainian territory.

This marks a setback for the Trump administration, whose proposal failed to gain majority support. However, the vote also signals diminished global backing for Ukraine, as the resolution was approved with 93 votes in favor, 18 against, and 65 abstentions, a lower tally than previous similar resolutions that exceeded 140 votes.

US-Ukraine Tensions Over Rival Resolutions

According to reports, Washington pressured Kyiv to withdraw its resolution in favor of the US proposal, but Ukraine refused. The General Assembly then amended the US resolution to include language acknowledging Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Despite the amendment, the vote on the US resolution resulted in 93 votes in favor, 8 against, and 73 abstentions. While Ukraine voted “yes”, the US abstained, and Russia opposed it.

Ukraine Defends Right to Self-Defense

Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Mariana Betsa reaffirmed Ukraine’s right to self-defense, citing Russia’s violation of UN Charter principles.

“As we mark three years since Russia’s full invasion of Ukraine, we urge all nations to stand firm on the side of humanity and lasting peace,” Betsa stated.

Meanwhile, US Deputy Ambassador Dorothy Shea acknowledged that previous UN resolutions condemning Russia had failed to stop the war. “What we need is a resolution that ensures a durable end to the conflict,” she said.

Trump’s Negotiations with Russia Strain Ties with Europe

The rival proposals highlight growing US-Ukraine tensions following Donald Trump’s decision to negotiate with Russia. His sudden diplomatic shift excluded both Ukraine and European allies, causing friction.

Trump has also made controversial remarks about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, calling him a “dictator” and falsely blaming Kyiv for starting the war. Zelenskyy responded, accusing Trump of being “influenced by Russian disinformation”.

UN Security Council Vote Looms

In a separate move, the US has pushed for a Security Council vote on its proposal. China, which holds the presidency this month, has scheduled it for Monday afternoon. However, the Security Council remains paralyzed due to Russia’s veto power, making the General Assembly the primary forum for global opinion on the war.

Resolution Details: Ukraine’s Stance vs. US Proposal

The US draft resolution urged a swift end to the conflict but did not mention Russia’s invasion. In contrast, the Ukraine-backed resolution explicitly condemns Russia and demands the complete withdrawal of its forces.

Ukraine’s resolution also raises concerns over North Korean troops allegedly fighting for Russia and stresses that no territorial acquisitions by force should be legally recognized.