Russian Invasion of Ukraine Draws Widespread—but Not Universal—Condemnation

As the Russian invasion of Ukraine unfolded, many countries condemned Russia's actions as unlawful violations of Ukraine's sovereignty and of the UN Charter's prohibition on the use of force. After Russia used its veto to block UN Security Council action on the crisis, countries invoked the Uniting for Peace resolution process to turn to the UN General Assembly. The General Assembly passed a resolution by overwhelming vote condemning Russia's aggression against Ukraine and later suspended Russia's membership in the UN Human Rights Council (HRC). The Security Council's paralysis, however, has prompted pointed questions, including from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, about the United Nations’ long-term efficacy.