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UN Clash: Russia Defends North Korean Troop Support, Compares It To West’s Aid To Ukraine

October 31, 2024, 11:34 am

During a Security Council meeting on Wednesday, Russia’s envoy to the United Nations, Vassily Nebenzia, questioned why allies like North Korea cannot assist Moscow in its ongoing war against Ukraine, especially when Western nations claim the right to support Kyiv. His comments came in response to a direct challenge from representatives of the United States, Britain, South Korea, Ukraine, and others, who accused Russia of violating UN resolutions and the foundational UN Charter by deploying troops from North Korea (DPRK) to bolster its military efforts.

South Korea’s UN Ambassador, Joonkook Hwang, firmly stated, “Supporting an act of aggression, which completely violates the principles of the UN Charter, is illegal.” He emphasized that any actions involving the deployment of North Korean troops to Russia contravene multiple UN Security Council resolutions. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin noted that approximately 10,000 North Korean troops are already stationed in eastern Russia, likely to be utilized in combat operations in the Kursk region, which is close to the Ukrainian border.

In his defense, Nebenzia argued that Russia’s military collaboration with North Korea does not breach international law. He criticized the West for imposing a double standard, questioning why the US and its allies are permitted to assist Ukraine while denying similar rights to Russia’s allies.

Ukraine’s UN Ambassador, Sergiy Kyslytsya, countered that “none of the countries that provide assistance to Ukraine is under Security Council sanctions.” He labeled receiving aid from North Korea, which is fully sanctioned by the UN since 2006 for its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, as a “brazen violation of the UN Charter.” He described the sending of North Korean troops to support Russia’s actions in Ukraine as a clear violation of international law.

While North Korea has not confirmed the deployment of its troops, its UN Ambassador, Song Kim, stated that any such action would be in accordance with international law. He indicated that North Korea and Russia maintain close communication regarding mutual security and the evolving situation.

US Deputy Ambassador Robert Woodward issued a stern warning to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, stating, “Should DPRK’s troops enter Ukraine in support of Russia, they will surely return in body bags.” He advised Kim to reconsider any plans involving such “reckless and dangerous behavior.”

Taliban Halts Polio Vaccines, Threatening Progress In Global Eradication

September 16, 2024, 5:42 pm

The Taliban-controlled government in Afghanistan has halted all polio vaccination campaigns, the United Nations has reported. The suspension, announced without any official explanation, comes just before a planned immunization drive in September.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) confirmed the halt and revealed ongoing discussions about potentially shifting from house-to-house vaccinations to site-based immunizations, such as those conducted in mosques. Dr. Hamid Jafari of the WHO mentioned that partners are evaluating the implications of this proposed change.

Previously, in June 2024, Afghanistan initiated a nationwide vaccination campaign using the more effective house-to-house method, which targets a larger number of children compared to site-to-site vaccinations. The WHO reported 18 polio cases in Afghanistan this year, a significant increase from six cases in 2023. Only two of these cases were in the southern region, which includes Taliban stronghold Kandahar.

Challenges to vaccination efforts include limited female participation, at around 20 percent, which hampers access to immunizations, especially in areas like Kandahar. The WHO has warned that the rollback in Afghanistan could adversely affect neighboring Pakistan, which faces similar anti-vaccination sentiments and militant attacks on vaccination campaigns.

The suspension threatens to undermine global polio eradication efforts, which have already been struggling with high costs and strategic challenges.

US and Ecuador Propose UN Peacekeeping Force To Replace Kenyan Mission In Haiti

September 7, 2024, 2:30 pm

On Friday, the United States and Ecuador circulated a draft resolution proposing the initiation of a UN peacekeeping operation to replace the Kenyan-led mission currently aiding in Haiti. This move aims to maintain the progress made by the multinational force, which has seen nearly 400 Kenyan police deployed since June to support the Haitian National Police.

Context and Need for Transition

The draft resolution, obtained by The Associated Press, emphasizes the necessity of UN peacekeepers to sustain gains achieved under the existing mission. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who visited Haiti on Thursday, underscored the US commitment to the mission and advocated for long-delayed general elections. Blinken also mentioned that a UN peacekeeping force could resolve the funding issues faced by the Kenyan-led mission, which relies heavily on voluntary contributions from the US and Canada.

Historical Context of UN Involvement in Haiti

The United Nations has intermittently engaged in Haiti since 1990, with a significant presence following a 2004 rebellion and a devastating earthquake in 2010. The UN mission, which ended in October 2017, faced criticism for introducing cholera and other abuses. Since then, Haiti has experienced several small UN missions, with the current political mission, BINUH, focused on advancing a Haitian-led political process.

Haitian Concerns and Current Situation

Many Haitians are wary of a new peacekeeping operation due to past abuses and the perception of UN forces as an occupying presence. In 2022, Haiti requested an international force to combat gangs, leading to the deployment of Kenyan police and personnel from other countries. This multinational force, expected to reach 2,500 members, faces significant financial challenges, with only $85 million pledged against a $600 million annual cost.

Resolution and Future Steps

The draft resolution would recognize the ongoing threat to international peace and security posed by the situation in Haiti and propose extending the mandate of the Multinational Security Support mission until October 2, 2025. Negotiations on the resolution are ongoing, with no set date for a Security Council vote. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric noted that any new peacekeeping force requires Security Council approval, troop and equipment commitments from member nations, and subsequent deployment—an intricate and time-consuming process.

UN, US Diplomatic Intervention Urged As Libyan Central Bank Crisis Deepens

August 31, 2024, 5:10 pm

US embassy in Libya has called for diplomatic efforts to resolve the escalating crisis surrounding the control of the country’s central bank, stressing that only dialogue can stabilize the nation’s fragile economy. Ambassador Richard Norland urged all parties to heed the United Nations’ call for emergency talks, warning that the ongoing power struggle over the bank’s leadership threatens Libya’s economic stability and could lead to further conflict.

Arrests and Intimidation Raise Concerns

The embassy expressed grave concerns over reports of arbitrary arrests and intimidation of central bank employees, demanding accountability for those responsible. Despite international pressure, there was no indication on Tuesday that the Tripoli-based government, led by Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, would reconsider its recent dismissal of the central bank’s long-serving governor, Sadiq al-Kabir, who has held the position for 20 years.

Kabir, who has recently criticized the Dbeibah government’s overspending, is seen as aligning with the forces in eastern Libya. In response to his ouster, the eastern administration has threatened to halt all oil production and exports until Kabir is reinstated, a move that could cripple Libya’s economy, as the affected oilfields account for about 90% of the country’s output.

Bank Leadership Dispute and Economic Fallout

Abdel Fattah Ghaffar, the new interim deputy governor appointed by the Tripoli government, held a press conference in the capital, promising to address the liquidity crisis and pay overdue salaries within days. However, Ghaffar’s ability to take control remains in question, as Kabir continues to resist handing over the necessary operational codes.

Kabir, who has led the central bank since the fall of Col. Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, warned on Tuesday that the bank might be unable to process August salaries due to ongoing threats from militias and the recent kidnapping of four staff members. He accused his opponents of illegally disrupting the bank’s operations, further deepening the crisis.

Political and Economic Instability Intensifies

Libya’s latest turmoil is rooted in nearly a decade of political division and conflict over state resources, exacerbated by the postponement of national elections since 2014. Kabir’s recent criticisms of the Tripoli government’s financial management have added to the tension, with Dbeibah denying any mismanagement or corruption.

The Libyan Presidential Council, linked to Dbeibah and headed by Mohamed al-Menfi, defended Kabir’s dismissal, arguing that it was necessary to restore the rule of law and appoint a competent governor. However, the move has been widely contested and criticized by international observers, including the British ambassador to Libya, Martin Longden, who warned against unilateral decisions that could further destabilize the country.

The man initially appointed as Kabir’s replacement, Mohamed al-Shukri, has declined the role unless his appointment is approved by the eastern-based House of Representatives, citing his unwillingness to contribute to the ongoing chaos. Meanwhile, the international community, including the IMF, remains concerned about the central bank’s lack of accountability but opposes the manner of Kabir’s removal, fearing it could derail efforts to unify Libya’s financial institutions.

Thailand’s First Mpox Case Raises Alarm Over Deadly New Strain

August 21, 2024, 1:11 pm

Thailand reported a suspected first case of the newly identified, more dangerous mpox strain on Wednesday. The patient, a European traveler who arrived from an African country, is currently quarantined in a hospital. Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, head of Thailand’s Department of Disease Control, indicated that laboratory tests are ongoing to confirm the exact strain, but preliminary results suggest it is Clade 1, not the less severe Clade 2.

Thongchai confirmed that the patient has tested positive for mpox, but results to definitively identify the Clade 1 variant will take an additional two days. Mpox cases have been escalating in Africa, with outbreaks reported in countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda since July.

The disease, transmitted through contact with infected animals and human-to-human through close physical interaction, is characterized by fever, muscle aches, and large skin lesions. The newer Clade 1b strain is notably more lethal and transmissible, with a fatality rate of about 3.6%, particularly affecting children.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, was first discovered in Denmark in 1958. Sweden reported its first confirmed case of Clade 1 outside Africa on August 15, further highlighting the global spread of this strain.

US Accuses Iran Of Cyber Attacks On 2024 Presidential Campaigns

August 20, 2024, 1:06 pm

United States has accused Iran of launching cyber-attacks targeting the presidential campaigns of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, as well as attempting to influence US voters to deepen political divisions. This assessment, made by the FBI and other federal agencies, marks the first time the US government has publicly attributed responsibility amid rising concerns over foreign interference in the upcoming election.

Iranian Cyber Operations Target Campaigns

According to a joint statement from the FBI, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Iranian activities have become increasingly aggressive during this election cycle. The agencies reported that Iran’s cyber operations specifically targeted both Harris and Trump’s campaigns. “This includes the recently reported activities to compromise former President Trump’s campaign, which the intelligence community attributes to Iran,” the statement read.

Earlier this month, the Trump campaign accused Iran of hacking one of its websites, with Trump downplaying the incident by stating that Iran only accessed publicly available information. The US agencies also noted that Iranian operatives used social engineering and other techniques to gain access to individuals with direct ties to both campaigns.

Iran Denies Allegations

In response to the US accusations, Iran’s mission to the United Nations dismissed the claims as “unsubstantiated and devoid of any standing,” and challenged Washington to provide evidence. The statement from Iran reiterated that the country has neither the intent nor the motive to interfere in the US presidential election.

Election Security and Past Precedents

Google recently reported that hackers linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, identified as APT42, have been targeting high-profile individuals and organizations in the US and Israel, including political campaigns. This comes amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran, especially with the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The current allegations echo concerns from the 2016 election, when Russian hackers were blamed for breaching Democratic National Committee emails, which exposed internal communications, including those related to candidate Hillary Clinton.

With the US election scheduled for November 5, the ongoing cyber threats and foreign interference remain a critical concern for national security, although the US agencies have not provided specific details on how they concluded Iran’s involvement or what information may have been compromised.

Sudan Peace Talks Achieve Key Aid Breakthrough Despite Ongoing Violence

August 18, 2024, 5:50 pm

Humanitarian Relief Progress

International mediators working to end Sudan’s ongoing conflict have welcomed recent decisions by both warring sides to facilitate humanitarian relief deliveries. In a joint statement issued on Saturday, the sponsors of the peace talks, including the United States, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, the African Union, and the United Nations, commended the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for agreeing to cooperate with aid operations in Darfur and Kordofan states.

Key Decisions and Coordination

The mediators also praised the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) for opening the Adre border crossing from Chad into North Darfur for three months, allowing crucial aid to enter the region. These steps are aimed at addressing severe food insecurity and humanitarian needs, which have been exacerbated by the ongoing conflict. The joint statement called for both parties to coordinate with humanitarian organizations to ensure that these corridors operate efficiently and without obstruction.

Geneva Talks and Conflict Background

The negotiations, which began in Geneva on Wednesday, proceeded without the participation of the Sudanese army due to disagreements over the format of the discussions. The conflict, which erupted last year, has resulted in one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, with over 25 million people facing acute hunger. The war pits the SAF, led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, against the RSF, commanded by Mohamad Hamdan Dagalo, commonly known as “Hemedti.”

Humanitarian Efforts and Ongoing Violence

In a related development, the RSF has committed to facilitating humanitarian convoys through the Debbah crossing north of Khartoum. Despite these positive steps, recent reports indicate ongoing violence; an RSF attack in Jalgini village, Sennar state, reportedly resulted in numerous casualties. Additionally, a cholera outbreak has claimed at least 316 lives, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

International Response and US Involvement

US has emphasized the importance of the Geneva talks in ending the fighting and alleviating the humanitarian crisis. US Special Envoy for Sudan, Tom Perriello, highlighted the significance of the Adre border crossing opening for humanitarian efforts. He urged the SAF to join the negotiations to further advance peace efforts. The US, which has played a leading role in the peace process, has been working to support Sudan’s transition to a more stable and democratic government.

Historical Context

Sudan’s transition has been troubled since the 2019 overthrow of longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir. The subsequent military coup against the civilian government in October 2021 and the ensuing conflict between the SAF and RSF have hindered progress towards civilian rule. The Geneva talks represent a crucial opportunity to address both the immediate humanitarian needs and the broader political challenges facing Sudan.

Polio Returns To Gaza After 25 Years: Urgent Vaccination Push Amid War

August 17, 2024, 1:00 pm

Gaza Strip has confirmed its first polio case in 25 years, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. This follows a recent call from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for humanitarian pauses in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict to facilitate vaccination efforts. The case was identified in a 10-month-old child from central Gaza who was unvaccinated. Testing in Jordan confirmed the presence of the disease.

UN Appeals for Vaccination Pauses

Guterres has urged for two seven-day breaks in the fighting to enable vaccination of over 640,000 children in Gaza. The UN reports that, although polio has not been detected in Gaza for a quarter-century, type 2 poliovirus was found in wastewater samples collected in June. Polio, a highly infectious disease often spread through contaminated water, can cause severe complications including paralysis and death, primarily affecting young children.

Vaccination Campaign Plans

The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have outlined plans for two vaccination drives targeting type 2 poliovirus (cVDPV2) in late August. To execute these plans, they stress the need for temporary cessation of hostilities to ensure safe access for health workers and families. “A ceasefire is essential to guarantee public health security in Gaza and neighboring regions,” the agencies stated. More than 1.6 million doses of the novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2) are expected to be delivered by the end of August, with distribution facilitated through Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport.

Context of the Conflict

The outbreak coincides with the intensification of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began after a significant Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. The ongoing war has resulted in extensive casualties, with over 40,000 reported dead in Gaza according to the health ministry there. The re-emergence of polio amidst this crisis highlights the urgent need for a coordinated international response to prevent further spread of the disease.

All About DR Congo War, What Is Driving It, Its Implications And How It Escalated?

August 14, 2024, 5:22 pm

Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is again under international scrutiny as violence escalates in its mineral-rich eastern region. Renewed conflict between the Congolese armed forces (FARDC) and the M23 rebel group in North Kivu province has forced thousands to flee with whatever they can carry. Since January, this violence has resulted in dozens of deaths and the displacement of hundreds of thousands. The growing threat of Goma, the regional capital with over two million residents, falling to M23 rebels poses a significant challenge to the Congolese government’s authority in the region.

The Origins of the Crisis

The instability in the DRC, persisting for over 30 years, is deeply rooted in complex historical issues and involves numerous local and foreign armed groups. The conflict extends beyond the M23 rebels, with various factions battling for control, particularly in the eastern regions. Neighboring countries are also implicated in the ongoing crisis.

Impact of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide

The 1994 Rwandan genocide had a profound effect on the DRC. The genocide led to the mass exodus of Hutu civilians and militias into the DRC, fueling ethnic tensions and instability in the region. This influx played a significant role in the First Congo War, where Rwanda, supporting the Tutsi-majority rebel group AFDL, helped overthrow Mobutu’s regime. However, the conflict’s deep-rooted issues persisted, leading to the Second Congo War and the continued presence of armed groups.

The Emergence of Rebel Groups and Current Conflict

Over time, the arming and counter-arming of militias by both the Congolese government and foreign actors have led to the rise of numerous rebel groups. Among these, the M23 is one of the most prominent today. Originating from the Tutsi-majority National Congress for the Defense of the People (CNDP), M23 launched a rebellion in 2012, briefly seizing Goma before being pushed back. The group resurfaced in 2022, and despite ongoing peace efforts, the conflict has only intensified.

Humanitarian and Economic Consequences

The conflict has had devastating humanitarian consequences, leading to severe displacement and food insecurity. As of July, ongoing clashes have displaced thousands, and conflict-related disruptions have exacerbated food insecurity in the region. Inflation has worsened, with the local currency’s depreciation making staple foods increasingly unaffordable for many households.

In areas unaffected by conflict, households are managing to meet basic food needs due to recent harvests, but high prices and limited income opportunities present challenges. However, conflict zones face much more dire circumstances, with displaced households relying on the market for food, often resorting to coping strategies that indicate severe crisis conditions.

Judicial Crackdown on Armed Groups

In a significant development, a military court in the DRC sentenced 26 individuals, including key figures from armed groups such as M23, to death after a high-profile trial. The convicted, including Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), were found guilty of war crimes, participation in an insurrection, and treason. Nangaa and 20 others were sentenced in absentia, as they remain on the run.

DRC’s decision to lift a moratorium on the death penalty in March has been met with criticism from human rights organizations. However, the government justified this move, aiming to target military personnel accused of treason. This judicial action underscores the ongoing efforts by the Congolese government to crack down on armed groups destabilizing the country.

Global Reactions After Sheikh Hasina’s Resignation, Bangladesh Riots

August 6, 2024, 6:01 pm

United States

The United States has called for calm in Bangladesh after long-ruling leader Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country amidst violent anti-government protests. Nearly 100 people were killed on Sunday before she left. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller urged all sides to “refrain from further violence” and noted that the US had seen reports of the army resisting pressure to crack down on protests. Miller emphasized the need for any transition to follow Bangladesh’s laws and for the future government to be decided by the Bangladeshi people.

We have seen the announcement that Prime Minister Hasina resigned from her position and departed Bangladesh. We are monitoring the situation carefully and the United States urges all parties to refrain from further violence. We urge calm and restraint in the days ahead. pic.twitter.com/lDsFotAO34

— Matthew Miller (@StateDeptSpox) August 5, 2024

United Nations

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for a “peaceful, orderly, and democratic transition” in Bangladesh. His spokesman, Farhan Haq, stressed the importance of a “full, independent, impartial, and transparent investigation into all acts of violence.” Guterres expressed solidarity with the people of Bangladesh and underscored the need to respect their human rights.

.@antonioguterres deplores the further loss of life during protests in #Bangladesh over the weekend.

He urges calm and restraint by all sides and emphasizes the importance of a peaceful, orderly and democratic transition.

Full statement: https://t.co/sNqpSO7vZx

— UN Spokesperson (@UN_Spokesperson) August 5, 2024

European Union

The European Union has echoed calls for “calm and restraint.” EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell emphasized the need for an “orderly and peaceful transition towards a democratically elected government” that respects human rights and democratic principles. Borrell also noted assurances from General Waker-Uz-Zaman that the situation would be handled peacefully and that unlawful killings would be impartially investigated.

United Kingdom

Britain, Bangladesh’s former colonial power, has called for the United Nations to lead an investigation into recent events. Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated that the people of Bangladesh deserve a “full and independent UN-led investigation” into the violence of the past few weeks.

The last two weeks in Bangladesh have seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life. All sides must work together to restore calm under a transitional government.

My statement on the ongoing situation ⬇️https://t.co/g0n4dfwHE9

— David Lammy (@DavidLammy) August 5, 2024

Canada

Canada’s Foreign Minister Melanie Joly condemned the “human rights violations, deaths, torture, arbitrary arrests, and lethal force” used in response to the protests. Joly urged all parties to respect democratic institutions, processes, and the rule of law during the transition.

My statement following resignation of Bangladesh’s Prime Minister: pic.twitter.com/fYpWjjEQAM

— Mélanie Joly (@melaniejoly) August 6, 2024

World Bank

The World Bank is assessing the impact of recent events in Bangladesh on its loan program. A spokesperson expressed sorrow over the violence and loss of life, and emphasized the Bank’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s development aspirations while hoping for a swift and peaceful resolution.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Ali Sabry expressed hope for a swift return to peace and stability in Bangladesh. Sabry highlighted the resilience and unity of the Bangladeshi nation, wishing for the people to overcome their challenges and emerge stronger.

Our hearts are with the people of #Bangladesh during these incredibly challenging times. The recent events have led to significant unrest and, tragically, the loss of many lives. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families of those affected and to all who are suffering…

— M U M Ali Sabry (@alisabrypc) August 5, 2024

Russia

The Russian Foreign Ministry expressed hope for a speedy return of political processes in Bangladesh to constitutional norms, highlighting the country’s friendly relations with Bangladesh.

Germany

A spokesperson for the German Foreign Ministry stressed the importance of Bangladesh continuing on its democratic path amid the ongoing crisis.

The international community remains attentive to the developments in Bangladesh, urging for a peaceful and democratic resolution to the political turmoil.

Pakistan floods: 5.7 million victims to face food crisis, says UN

October 3, 2022, 5:58 pm

The humanitarian agency of the United Nations has warned that about 5.7 victims of the Pakistan floods will face a serious food crisis in the next three months.
Pakistan recently faced heavy floods from the deluge that has killed and taken away the shelter of many people.

Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority reported that floods fueled by abnormally heavy monsoon rains have killed 1,695 people, affected 33 million, damaged more than 2 million homes and displaced hundreds of thousands now living in tents or makeshift homes.

The latest reports on Saturday by the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said that the current floods will worsen the food crisis between September and November.
According to the World Health Organisation, 16% of the country’s population was living in moderate or severe food insecurity.
However, the government has a different take on the issue. The govt is insisting that there is no immediate worry about food supplies as the grain stocks are enough to last through the next harvest and the govt is importing more.
The U.N. agency and other partners have scaled up their flood response and delivered help to 1.6 million people affected by the deluge.
The U.N. is due to issue a revised appeal seeking an additional $800 million from the international community to respond to the soaring life-saving needs of Pakistani flood survivors. The U.N. said last week that “food is being delivered to vulnerable families; however, it is still not enough to meet the nutrition needs of the people.”