New York: Amid escalating tensions between Russia and the West, Moscow has taken the helm as the chair of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the month of July.
The UNSC plays a pivotal role in maintaining global peace and security, with its leadership rotating monthly among member states. Russia now assumes the chair from South Korea, which held it in June.
What’s on Russia’s Agenda for July?
Russian Permanent Representative to the UN, Vasily Nebenzia, outlined three key events planned under Russia’s chairmanship:
- Global Security Equation Debate: Russia will host an open debate aimed at fostering multilateral cooperation to establish a fairer, more democratic, and sustainable world order. Scheduled for July 16, this debate will highlight discussions on a new global “security equation”.
- Middle East Settlement: On July 17, Russia plans to lead a debate focusing on resolving issues in the Middle East. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is expected to chair both this debate and the global security equation discussion. However, concerns have been raised regarding US visa issuance for attendees, recalling past issues when Russian journalists were denied visas during Russia’s UNSC presidency.
- UN and Regional Organizations: On July 19, Russia will facilitate a debate on enhancing cooperation between the UN and regional bodies like the CSTO, CIS, and SCO.
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Russia-Ukraine Conflict
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine will also be a key focus during Russia’s chairmanship. Discussions will include recent events such as the Ukrainian missile strike in Sevastopol, which Moscow claims involved American ATACMS missiles.
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As Russia assumes this temporary leadership role, observers are keen to see what strategic initiatives can be advanced in just one month.
