The United States voted against a UN General Assembly resolution condemning Russia's actions in the conflict with Ukraine. The vote, which took place on April 17, 2025, was broadcast on the official website of the United Nations. The document was not supported by nine countries, including the United States, Russia, Belarus, the DPRK, Iran, Syria and several other states. Washington's decision sparked heated debate, reflecting a shift in priorities by the Donald Trump administration, which is emphasizing a diplomatic settlement rather than publicly condemning Moscow.
Speaking before the vote, US Permanent Representative to the UN Jonathan Schreier explained his country's position. He stressed that the proposed resolution does not offer new solutions and merely repeats previously adopted statements, which, in Washington's view, do not contribute to progress in peace talks. Schreier called on the Council of Europe and UN member states to focus on measures aimed at achieving a comprehensive and sustainable peace between Russia and Ukraine. According to him, the United States advocates practical steps that can bring the conflict closer to an end, instead of continuing the rhetoric of condemnation.
The resolution, rejected by the US, called for an immediate end to hostilities, the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory and the prosecution of those responsible for war crimes. According to Reuters, the document was supported by 140 countries, indicating continued international support for Ukraine, but the lack of consensus among key players, including the US, highlights the difficulties in achieving unity at the UN. Russia, in turn, called the resolution “politically motivated” and “not reflecting the real situation”. Russia’s permanent representative to the UN, Vasily Nebenzya, said the document ignored the need to take into account Moscow’s interests, including security issues and Ukraine’s non-accession to NATO.