India chose to abstain from voting on a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution that called for Russia to immediately halt its aggression against Ukraine. The resolution also demanded the withdrawal of Russian military forces from Ukraine, particularly from the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.
The UNGA, consisting of 193 member states, passed the resolution with 99 votes in favor, 9 against, and 60 abstentions, including India among others like Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Egypt, Nepal, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Sri Lanka. Nations voting against included Belarus, Cuba, North Korea, Russia, and Syria.
Titled 'Safety and security of nuclear facilities of Ukraine, including the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant,' the resolution urged Russia to cease its aggression and withdraw all military forces from Ukrainian territory within its recognized borders immediately. It also called for the removal of unauthorized personnel from the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, emphasizing the need for Ukraine to regain full control for safety.
The draft resolution, initiated by Ukraine and supported by over 50 countries including France, Germany, and the United States, underscored the critical importance of nuclear safety amidst escalating tensions.
In response, Russia's First Deputy Permanent Representative Dmitry Polyanskiy criticized the UNGA's decision, labeling it as non-consensual and politically biased. He argued that supporting the resolution could escalate the Ukrainian conflict, undermining efforts towards a peaceful resolution supported by a sensible part of the international community.
India's decision to abstain reflects its stance on maintaining diplomatic neutrality amid complex global conflicts, prioritizing dialogue and diplomatic channels to address international disputes.
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