Russia’s decision to veto this draft resolution risks setting back progress on the political process for the Western Sahara: UK statement at the UN Security Cou
The UK expressed disappointment at Russia’s veto of a UN Security Council resolution on Western Sahara, warning it risks undermining the UN Mission and political progress.
The United Kingdom voiced significant disappointment following Russia’s veto of a draft resolution concerning Western Sahara at the UN Security Council. The UK Permanent Representative to the UN, Sarah MacIntosh, stated that the veto undermines the Council’s ability to act on the issue and jeopardises the deployment of the UN Mission in the region. She warned that this decision risks reversing progress already made toward a political solution for Western Sahara.
The UK commended the leadership of the United States in advancing the resolution and acknowledged the efforts of UN Personal Envoy Staffan de Mistura to facilitate the political process. The statement emphasised the importance of accelerating progress toward a just, lasting, and mutually agreed solution that ensures the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara.
The UK reiterated its position that Morocco’s 2007 autonomy proposal remains the most credible, viable, and pragmatic basis for resolving the dispute. This stance aligns with the UK’s long-standing support for a negotiated settlement under UN auspices.
The UK urged all Council members to prioritise the interests of the people of Western Sahara by supporting measures that advance a durable political solution. It called for renewed commitment to the UN-led process to avoid further setbacks in the peace efforts.