In a major policy shift, the United States voted in favor of Russia in the United Nations over a resolution of condemnation against Russian attack on Ukraine. Since the beginning of the Ukraine war, it was the first time when the United States did not back Ukraine as the 193 members of the General Assembly voted on the draft resolution ‘Advancing a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine’ tabled by Ukraine. 

The resolution was adopted after 93 votes were in favour and 18 votes were against while 65 nations chose abstentions. Russian allies Sudan and North Korea voted in favour of Russia. The resolution features over de-escalation, a peaceful solution of war in accordance with UN charter and international law. 

The resolution came as a victory for Ukraine after the country started losing support of other nations.  After the return of US President Donald Trump to the Oval office, there’s a shift in policy on Ukraine. 

Prior to the vote in the General Assembly, Ambassador Dorothy Shea, the Charge d’Affaires at the US Mission to the UN, had urged “all Member States, including Ukraine and Russia” to back the resolution.

“A simple, historic statement from the General Assembly that looks forward, not backwards. A resolution focused on one, simple idea: Ending the war. A path to peace is possible,” she said.

“Mr. President, that is why the United States opposed putting forward another resolution. And that is why we cannot support Ukraine’s resolution, and we urge its withdrawal in favor of a strong statement committing us to end the war and work towards lasting peace,” Shea said.

The US ended up abstaining from the vote for its own resolution at the General Assembly after several amendments were passed ahead of the vote to strengthen the language against Russia and reaffirm Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

India abstained from voting as it has already called for a peaceful resolution of the conflict.