During a recent session of the United Nations Security Council, Ukraine’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Andriy Melnyk, urged for Russia’s removal from peacekeeping operations. This request follows the inclusion of the Russian military on a list of entities implicated in sexual violence during conflicts.
Melnyk’s remarks highlighted the ongoing tensions surrounding Russia’s role within the UN, particularly in light of resolutions from the General Assembly demanding the unconditional withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukrainian territory. He stated, “If Russia feels so uncomfortable with the resolutions that require its military to leave, or, more accurately, its war criminals, perhaps it is time to say goodbye and leave the United Nations.”
“I do not think anyone in this room will shed tears if Russia slams the door and leaves. Every day, the Russian representative spits in our faces with his constant lies, and we too politely pretend that it is just rain,” Melnyk emphasized.
He also pointed out that Russian armed forces have been mentioned in the UN Secretary-General’s reports regarding children and armed conflicts on three occasions. Furthermore, Russia’s recent designation as a party involved in sexual violence during conflicts has raised additional concerns about its participation in UN operations.
“This status cannot remain merely symbolic. Armed forces officially included in such a list by the UN Secretary-General should not participate in any operations under the UN flag. Russian personnel must be removed from UN peacekeeping and policing missions,” Melnyk asserted.
Ukraine's representative at the UN has called for Russia's suspension from peacekeeping operations, citing its inclusion on a list of entities involved in sexual violence during conflicts. This statement reflects ongoing tensions regarding Russia's role in the UN and its military actions in Ukraine.