Russia has vetoed a U.N. resolution, effectively putting an end to the monitoring of sanctions against North Korea by United Nations experts regarding its nuclear program. Even though the sanctions themselves are still in place.
This sudden decision by Russia, despite previously agreeing to the monitoring, has led to accusations from Western countries that Moscow is trying to protect its weapons trade with North Korea for use in the conflict in Ukraine, in violation of U.N. sanctions.
The vote in the 15-member council saw 13 in favor, Russia against, and China abstaining. The resolution aimed to extend the mandate of the panel of experts for a year, but Russia’s veto has halted its operations. However, the U.N. sanctions against North Korea remain active.
Russia’s U.N. Ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, argued that Western nations are attempting to “strangle” North Korea and that the sanctions have not been effective in curbing the country’s nuclear program.
The U.S. Deputy Ambassador, Robert Wood, criticized Russia’s veto as an attempt to silence independent investigations into North Korea’s violations of sanctions. He pointed out that the panel had reported on Russia’s own violations of U.N. Security Council resolutions.
The White House condemned Russia’s veto, calling it a reckless action that undermines sanctions on North Korea. The international community was urged to support Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s aggression.
Britain’s U.N. Ambassador also raised concerns about arms deals between Russia and North Korea, including the transfer of ballistic missiles used in the invasion of Ukraine.
While Russia vetoed the resolution alone, China expressed reservations and called for the comprehensive implementation of sanctions against North Korea. China also proposed a draft resolution with Russia to reverse the sanctions.
The Security Council has been imposing sanctions on North Korea since its first nuclear test in 2006. Despite multiple resolutions, the goals of cutting funds and curbing nuclear programs have not been achieved.
The current mandate for the panel of experts, approved in March 2023, is set to expire on April 30, 2024.
