A resolution that was voted on this Monday in the United Nations General Assembly highlighted the divergent positions regarding the conflict between Russia and Ukraine held by two key players in global geopolitics: The United States and the European Union.
Following the presentation of an initial resolution drafted by Ukraine with the support of its European allies, which called for the immediate withdrawal of Russian troops and emphasized the need to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country, the United States voted against it. Meanwhile, the resolution was approved with 93 votes in favor, 18 against, and 65 abstentions.
The particularity of this document is that it was initially drafted by the U.S. delegation, but later paragraphs supporting Kiev were added with the consent of UN member countries, reported the agency Reuters.
In its original version, the United States expressed in three paragraphs: it lamented the loss of lives during the "conflict between Russia and Ukraine," reiterated that the main purpose of the UN is to maintain international peace and security and to peacefully resolve disputes, and urged for a swift end to the conflict and lasting peace.
However, Ukraine's European allies added amendments referring to Russia's large-scale invasion and the need for a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace in accordance with the founding Charter of the United Nations, and reaffirmed the United Nations' support for Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity.
On its part, Cuba chose to abstain, which reflected a cautious stance amid a polarized international debate. The permanent representative of Cuba to the UN, Ernesto Soberón, explained that the decision was based on the need to maintain a balanced position in a scenario where multiple geopolitical and strategic interests converge.
The debate generated in the General Assembly highlights the challenges faced by international diplomacy in a context of rising tensions, where the pursuit of negotiated solutions coexists with firm, and at times, opposing stances.
From the European Union, they celebrated the outcome with the flag of Ukraine and that of the organization. "Family," wrote the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, alongside a photograph.
The voting took place three years after the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, a conflict that has left a trail of devastation and continues without a clear resolution.
More than ten million Ukrainians have been displaced, and at least 12,654 civilians have been reported dead, including 673 children, in addition to 29,392 injured, according to El País.
The country's infrastructure has suffered immensely, with over 236,000 homes destroyed. Events like the siege of Mariupol, the massacre in Bucha, and the battle at the Azovstal plant have marked tragic milestones in this war.
In the international arena, peace negotiations have become tense. The President of the United States, Donald Trump, has taken a stance that some interpret as aligned with Russia, excluding Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky from the discussions. Zelensky has expressed his willingness to resign if it benefits Ukraine.
In the Latin American context, the involvement of Cuban mercenaries has been reported in some of the bloodiest battles of the conflict in Ukraine.
A report from Schemes, the investigative unit of the Ukrainian news service RFE/RL, revealed the presence of several hundred Cuban citizens within the ranks of the Russian army in just one week of investigation, and this number is expected to continue growing.
Frequently Asked Questions about the UN Voting on the Russian Invasion of Ukraine and Cuba's Stance
Why did the United States vote against the UN resolution on Ukraine?
The United States voted against the resolution due to the inclusion of amendments by European allies that the United States did not fully support. Originally, the U.S. document emphasized the need for peace and expressed sorrow over the loss of lives, but did not refer to a large-scale invasion.
What was Cuba's position in the vote on the Russian invasion of Ukraine?
Cuba abstained from the vote, reflecting a cautious stance. The representative of Cuba to the UN explained that the decision was based on the need to maintain a balanced position in a context of multiple geopolitical interests.
What implications does Cuba's stance have in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine?
Cuba's stance, by abstaining, suggests an attempt to avoid alienating its international allies while balancing its position on such a sensitive issue. This decision can be seen as an effort to refrain from taking a side in the conflict, which could have implications for its international relations.
What impact does the UN resolution have on the conflict between Russia and Ukraine?
The UN resolution reaffirms support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and demands the immediate withdrawal of Russian forces from the country. Although it is not legally binding, it reflects the prevailing sentiment of the international community and exerts diplomatic pressure on Russia.
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