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By Natalie Venegas
Weekend Reporter
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Russia on Monday vetoed a United Nations resolution calling for a ceasefire in Sudan's ongoing conflict and delivery of humanitarian aid to millions.
What Was the U.N. Resolution?
The proposed resolution, co-sponsored by the United Kingdom and Sierra Leone, sought an immediate end to hostilities between Sudan's military and paramilitary factions, alongside the delivery of urgently needed humanitarian aid.
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However, despite broad support from other U.N. Security Council members, Moscow's veto blocked the measure.
What Is Happening in Sudan?
The decision came amid escalating violence in Sudan, where clashes have ravaged the capital, Khartoum, and the troubled region of Darfur. The conflict, which erupted in April 2023, has plunged the country into chaos, leaving over 24,000 dead and millions displaced. U.N. officials have repeatedly warned of famine on the horizon as humanitarian aid faces severe obstructions.
Last week, U.N. political chief Rosemary DiCarlo accused allies of Sudan's warring forces of "enabling the slaughter" that has killed thousands.
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What Is the International Response?
Russia's veto has raised concern as U.K. Foreign Minister David Lammy, who chaired the meeting, told the council afterward, "This Russian veto is a disgrace. While Britain works with our African partners to address this crisis, Russia vetoes their will."
The U.S. also weighed in on Monday, echoing concerns of increased violence in Sudan with President Joe Biden urging global unity during his remarks at the G20 summit in Brazil.
"On Sudan, we're seeing one of the world's most serious humanitarian crises—eight million people on the brink of famine," he said. "This deserves our collective outrage and our collective attention. External actors must stop arming" the parties.
Biden urged "one voice" to tell the rival forces: "Stop tearing your country apart. Stop blocking aid to the Sudanese people. Stop the violence."
Critics have accused Russia of exploiting Sudan's turmoil for geopolitical leverage. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield denounced Moscow's veto, stating, "It is shocking that Russia has vetoed an effort to save lives, though perhaps it shouldn't be."
She added that "for months, Russia has obstructed and obfuscated, standing in the way of council action to address the catastrophic situation in Sudan and playing...both sides of the conflict, to advance its own political objectives at the expense of Sudanese lives."
This comes after reports indicate that Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) group has received support from Russia's Wagner Group, a shadowy mercenary outfit tied to Moscow's interests. Meanwhile, the Sudanese government, led by General Abdel Fattah Burhan, has reportedly maintained ties with Russian allies and regional powers, including Egypt and Iran.
Sudan, however, has accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of arming the RSF, which the UAE denies.
What Is Russia Saying?
The veto underscores the deep divisions within the Security Council with Russia defending its position by emphasizing Sudan's sovereignty.
"It should be solely the government of Sudan" that should be responsible for what happens in the country, argued Russia's Deputy U.N. Ambassador Dmitry Polyansky.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
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