Regrettable Russian veto in the Security Council

Russia vetoed a resolution in the UN Security Council this afternoon regarding the situation in Ukraine. Norway was co-sponsor of the resolution.

“Russia’s veto was expected, but is still deeply regrettable,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Børge Brende.

The resolution that was blocked by Russia would have confirmed Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity. The text would also have established that the referendum planned for tomorrow in Crimea can have no validity.

“It is encouraging that none of the other members of the Security Council voted against the resolution. That underscores the broad international respect for Ukraine’s borders, and sends a clear signal to Russia,” said Mr Brende.

The draft resolution did not single out Russia, but emphasised key principles of international law in the UN Charter such as territorial integrity and the peaceful resolution of conflicts through political dialogue and international mediation.  

At the same time, the resolution would have placed demands on the authorities in Ukraine to respect international law and uphold the rights of minorities.

“The draft resolution was well balanced and proposed a political way out of the crisis. It is highly regrettable that it was not adopted,” said Foreign Minister Brende.

“I trust that Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will continue to make every effort to forge a peaceful way forward in cooperation with regional organisations such as the OSCE,” said Mr Brende.