Russia vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution on Monday that sought an immediate ceasefire in Sudan, a country mired in a devastating war since April 2023. The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has caused the world’s largest displacement crisis, with over 11 million people uprooted and tens of thousands killed.
The resolution, proposed by the United Kingdom and Sierra Leone, urged all parties to halt hostilities and engage in talks to agree on a national ceasefire. It also called for humanitarian pauses and the safe passage of aid. While 14 council members supported the measure, Russia stood alone in opposing it.
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned the veto, labeling it “mean, nasty, and cynical.” He accused Russia of obstructing efforts to save lives, adding, “Russia will have to explain itself to the entire United Nations membership now.”
Russia’s deputy UN ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy defended the veto, stating that the council should not impose solutions on Sudan but instead facilitate agreements between warring factions. Polyanskiy also accused the UK of “double standards,” citing its support for Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The veto drew sharp criticism from the United States, with UN Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield calling it “unconscionable.” She argued that Russia’s obstruction was not about protecting Sudanese sovereignty but about undermining diplomatic efforts.
