Mon Feb 24 17:17:53 UTC 2025: ## UN Votes on Competing Ukraine Resolutions Amidst US-Ukraine Tensions

**New York, February 24, 2025** – On the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the UN General Assembly approved a resolution demanding the immediate withdrawal of Russian troops, highlighting growing divisions between the US and Ukraine. The resolution, backed by Europe and co-sponsored by all 27 EU members, passed with 93 votes in favor, 18 against, and 65 abstentions – a lower level of support than previous resolutions condemning Russia’s aggression.

The vote followed intense lobbying and a significant rift between the US and Ukraine. The US, under President Trump, presented a competing resolution calling for a swift end to the war but omitting any mention of Russia’s invasion. This move followed unexpected negotiations between Trump and Russia, leaving both Ukraine and European allies feeling sidelined.

Trump’s administration pressured Ukraine to withdraw its resolution in favor of the US proposal, a move that was rejected by Ukraine. Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Mariana Betsa defended her country’s right to self-defense, emphasizing that Russia’s actions violate the UN Charter. US Deputy Ambassador Dorothy Shea argued that previous UN resolutions had failed to end the conflict and stressed the need for a resolution focusing on a durable peace.

The contrasting resolutions reflect the strained relationship between the US and Ukraine, stemming from Trump’s direct engagement with Russia and his controversial rhetoric, which included calling Ukrainian President Zelenskyy a “dictator” and falsely accusing Kyiv of starting the war. Zelenskyy, in response, accused Trump of operating within a “Russian-made disinformation space.”

The US also sought a vote on its resolution in the UN Security Council, where Russia’s veto power often paralyzes action. The General Assembly, lacking veto power, has become the primary forum for addressing the Ukraine conflict. While the approved resolution carries no legal weight, the vote is seen as a significant indicator of global opinion on the conflict. Observers will closely analyze the vote totals to gauge the impact of the US’s alternative resolution and the shifting international landscape.

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