On the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the United States has taken an unexpected stance, siding with Russia twice in key votes at the United Nations. This move reflects a significant shift in foreign policy, especially regarding the Trump administration’s approach to the war.
In the first vote, the US opposed a European-backed resolution that condemned Russia’s actions and reaffirmed Ukraine’s territorial integrity. The US joined Russia, North Korea, and Belarus at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York in voting against the resolution.
Later, the US proposed and supported a different resolution at the UN Security Council, calling for an end to the conflict but omitting any direct criticism of Russia. This resolution was approved, but it faced resistance from two of America’s closest allies, the UK and France, who abstained after their proposed amendments were blocked.
The UN discussions coincided with French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to President Donald Trump at the White House, aiming to reconcile their differing views on the war. Similarly, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to meet with President Trump to address these ongoing tensions.
Trump’s White House has notably distanced itself from the traditional transatlantic alliance, openly supporting Moscow and questioning America’s commitment to European security. This division was on full display during the UNGA vote, where the US supported a resolution focusing solely on the humanitarian impact of the war, rather than condemning Russia’s invasion. In contrast, European nations proposed a resolution that explicitly blamed Russia for the invasion and called for stronger support for Ukraine.
The US resolution passed, but only after being modified to include language backing Ukraine, which led to the US abstaining. Meanwhile, the European-drafted resolution was approved with overwhelming support, including 93 votes in favor, though the US voted against it alongside Russia and a few other nations.
At the UN Security Council, the US-backed resolution was passed with 10 votes in favor, though key European allies—such as the UK and France—chose to abstain.
This situation highlights the growing rift between the US and its European allies, as Russia’s influence in the UN Security Council continues to complicate efforts to resolve the war. While the US is pushing for an end to the conflict, its approach contrasts sharply with European calls for stronger condemnation of Russia’s actions and greater support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.
With no clear resolution in sight, the ongoing war in Ukraine remains a deeply divisive issue on the global stage.
