US Policy Shift on Russia-Ukraine Conflict
President Donald Trump has initiated a notable shift in US policy concerning the Russia-Ukraine conflict, diverging significantly from previous stances held under President Joe Biden's administration.
UN Resolution and US-Russia Alignment
- The US, under Trump's directive, withdrew its support for condemning Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine at the United Nations.
- In a rare alignment, both the US and Russia voted against a European-backed UN General Assembly resolution addressing Russia's "full-scale invasion."
- The US and Russia collaborated for the first time in the Security Council to back a US resolution calling for a "swift end" to the conflict without assigning blame.
G7 and US Policy Stance
- The G7 did not issue a joint statement marking the third anniversary of the war's inception, breaking with past practices.
- Allegedly, the US opposed language condemning Russia, leading to the absence of a unified G7 declaration.
Trump's Diplomatic Moves
- Trump has reportedly been in "serious discussions" with Russian President Vladimir Putin, aiming for a resolution favorable to Moscow.
- He hinted at a potential visit by Ukrainian President Zelenskyy to Washington to negotiate a deal on natural resources.
European Concerns and Responses
- French President Emmanuel Macron described his discussions with Trump as a "turning point," emphasizing Europe's willingness to send peacekeepers post-negotiations.
- Macron's visit illustrates European alarm over the US's closer alignment with Russia.
UN Voting Outcomes
- The European-backed resolution at the UN General Assembly passed with 93 votes for, 18 against, and 65 abstentions.
- A separate US resolution, amended to blame Russia, led the US to abstain from voting for its measure.
Security Council Dynamics
- The UN Security Council adopted a US resolution supported by Russia and China, marking a significant diplomatic shift.
- Security Council resolutions are mandatory for members, unlike General Assembly resolutions.
