Major Diplomatic Shift Under Trump As US Votes Against Ukraine's Resolution On War At United Nations, Sides With Russia

For the first time since Russia invaded Ukraine three years ago, the United States (US) sided with Russia in an effort to block a draft resolution at the United Nations (UN) calling for de-escalation, cessation of hostilities, and a peaceful resolution to the war, Indian Express reported.

This marks a significant shift in Washington’s diplomatic stance, as the US had previously voted alongside European allies on similar resolutions.

Despite the opposition from the US and Russia, the resolution was adopted as it garnered support from 93 nations, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and other G7 members—excluding the US.

In contrast, 18 nations, including Russia, the US, Israel, and Hungary, voted against the resolution, while 65 countries, including India, China, and Brazil, abstained.

The number of nations backing the resolution was notably lower than in previous votes, where over 140 nations had condemned Russia’s aggression.

Explaining the decision, US Ambassador Dorothy Shea stated, "It has now dragged on for far too long, and at far too terrible a cost to the people in Ukraine, in Russia, and beyond."

India’s decision to abstain came as no surprise, as New Delhi has consistently refrained from taking a stand on previous UN resolutions concerning the Russia-Ukraine war.

India’s position is a delicate diplomatic balancing act, given its strong strategic partnerships on both sides of the conflict. Despite the US' shift in position, India opted to maintain its neutral stance, reinforcing its policy of non-alignment.

Among India’s neighbours, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka abstained, while Bhutan, Nepal, and the Maldives voted in favour of the resolution alongside the Europeans.

As the UNGA resolution was adopted, the assembly erupted in applause, signalling broad international approval.

On the third anniversary of the war, UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the conflict as a “grave threat” not only to Europe’s peace and security but also to the foundations of the United Nations itself.

The US also proposed a separate resolution titled "The Path to Peace", which expressed condolences for the loss of life during the "Russian Federation-Ukraine conflict".

However, a French amendment sought to replace this phrase with "the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation”. The amended resolution was adopted with 93 votes in favour, eight against, and 73 abstentions, with the US abstaining on its own resolution.

Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Mariana Betsa reaffirmed Ukraine’s right to self-defence, stating, "Russia’s invasion violates the UN Charter’s requirement that countries respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other nations."

The diplomatic divide, highlighted by the US breaking ranks with its traditional allies, signals an evolving geopolitical landscape with huge implications for global diplomacy.