India abstains from voting in UNSC condemning attack against Ukraine by Russia

Feb. 26: India has abstained on a US-sponsored United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution that “deplores in the strongest terms” Russia’s “aggression against Ukraine.”While Russia which chaired the meeting of the UNSC since it holds the presidency for the month of February- vetoed the resolution. China too abstained along with United Arab Emirates (UAE). The remaining 11 members of the UNSC including the US, UK, France, voted in favour of the resolution, which did not pass since Russia vetoed it.

Explaining its vote, India’s permanent representative at the UN, TS Trimurti said, “India is deeply disturbed by the recent turn of developments in Ukraine. We urge that all efforts are made for the immediate cessation of violence and hostilities. No solution can ever be arrived at, at the cost of human lives. We are also deeply concerned about the welfare and security of the Indian community, including a large number of Indian students, in Ukraine.

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UNSC’s consideration of the draft resolution on Ukraine

📺Watch: India’s Explanation of Vote by Permanent Representative @AmbTSTirumurti ⤵️@MeaIndia pic.twitter.com/UB2L5JLuyS

— India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) February 25, 2022

TS Trimurti further stated, “The contemporary global order has been built on the UN Charter. international law, and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states. All member states need to honour these principles in finding a constructive way forward. Dialogue is the only answer to settling differences and disputes, however daunting that may appear at this moment. It is a matter of regret that the path of diplomacy was given up. We must return to it. For all these reasons, India has chosen to abstain on this resolution.”

Meanwhile, after India abstained from voting on UNSC resolution condemning Russia’s attackon Ukraine, Russia said, “Highly appreciate India’s independent and balanced position at the voting. In the spirit of the special and privileged strategic partnership Russia is committed to maintain close dialogue with India on the situation aroun Ukraine.”