Russia vetoed and fiercely debated the US draft on nuclear weapons in space

(PLO) – The US and Russia argued fiercely at the United Nations after Moscow vetoed a draft resolution drafted by the US related to nuclear weapons in space.

On April 24, at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), Russia vetoed a draft resolution drafted by the US that called on countries to prevent an arms race in outer space. This move caused Washington to accuse Moscow of “hiding something”, according to the news agency Reuters.

The vote on the draft resolution took place after the US accused Russia of developing anti-satellite nuclear weapons to put into space. Anti-satellite nuclear weapons are launched into space to destroy enemy satellites.

Russia denies this allegation. Russian President Vladimir Putin also stated that Moscow opposes sending nuclear weapons into space.

Speaking at the Security Council meeting, US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said: “Today’s veto raises the question: Why? Why, if you are following the rules, would you not support a resolution reaffirming this principle? You might be hiding something.”

Ms. Thomas-Greenfield called Russia’s move “confusing and shameful.”

In response, Russian Ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzia accused the US of trying to tarnish Russia and said Moscow would soon begin negotiations with Security Council members on a draft resolution proposed by Russia to keep peace in the world. space.

“We want a ban on the placement of any weapons in space, not just weapons of mass destruction. But you don’t want that. Let me ask the American side the same question: Why?” – Mr. Nebenzia asked Ms. Thomas-Greenfield at the meeting.

Draft resolution on nuclear weapons in space was put to a vote at the Security Council on April 24 after 6 weeks of negotiations. The draft received 13 votes in favor, 1 veto from Russia and 1 abstention from China.

The draft affirms the obligation to comply with the Outer Space Treaty and calls on states to “actively contribute to the goal of peaceful use of outer space and to prevent an arms race in outer space.” pillar”.

The 1967 Outer Space Treaty prohibits signatories (including the United States and Russia) from placing “in orbit around the Earth any object carrying a nuclear weapon or any other weapon of mass destruction.”

Before the Security Council voted on the draft resolution proposed by the United States, Russia and China proposed amending the text to include a call for all countries to “permanently prevent the placement of weapons in space.” space and the threat or use of force in outer space”.

The Security Council voted on the proposed amendment but it was not passed because there were 7 votes in favor, 7 votes against and one abstention.