Russia exercised its veto power at the UN Security Council to block a resolution championed by the US and Japan aimed at averting a potential arms race in outer space. The resolution was designed to deter the deployment of nuclear weapons in orbit, amidst growing concerns fueled by US intelligence indicating Russia's development of a satellite capable of carrying a nuclear payload.
Russia's Veto at the UN Security Council
On Wednesday, Russia cast its veto to thwart the resolution urging nations to collaborate in preventing an arms race in outer space. The resolution also underscored the importance of upholding existing treaties that prohibit the placement of nuclear weapons or any other weapons of mass destruction in Earth's orbit.
International Response and Concerns
Despite the backing of thirteen member states and China's decision to abstain, Russia stood alone in opposing the resolution. This move has raised alarms in the White House, especially following reports that Russia might be advancing in satellite technology capable of carrying nuclear armaments.
US Reaction and Diplomatic Exchange
The White House expressed disappointment over Russia's veto, citing President Putin's public assurance that Russia has no plans to militarize space. US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield questioned Russia's motives, emphasizing the need for transparency and cooperation in safeguarding outer space.
Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia dismissed the resolution as politicized and insufficient, advocating for a broader prohibition on weapons and the use of force in space. He criticized the US for obstructing a longstanding treaty proposal jointly advocated by Russia and China to ban space weaponry.
US Critique and Future Perspectives
US Assistant Secretary of State Mallory Stewart criticized vague treaty proposals lacking clear definitions of space weapons, such as the one proposed by Russia and China. Despite the setback at the UN, US Ambassador Robert Wood emphasized the resolution's crucial role in averting the catastrophic implications of a nuclear event in space.
Following the vote, Wood expressed disappointment with the outcome, underscoring the missed opportunity to mitigate the risks associated with nuclear activities in space. The diplomatic exchange underscores the escalating tensions surrounding space militarization and the imperative for international collaboration in preserving outer space as a peaceful domain.
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By: insider@insider.com (Mia Jankowicz)
Title: Russia Vetoed US-led UN Resolution to Prevent Space Nuclear Arms Race
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/russia-vetoed-us-attempt-to-stop-nuclear-arms-in-space-2024-4
Published Date: Thu, 25 Apr 2024 12:23:43 +0000
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