Russia’s veto leaves 4.1 million Syrians in uncertainty, aid blocked

UK Ambassador Barbara Woodward expressed grave concern in the UN Security Council about northwest Syria as Russia’s veto worsens the situation

Two weeks ago, Russia vetoed the nine-year-old UN mandate to provide essential humanitarian assistance to 4.1 million people in the region.

Russia’s veto and it’s impact on Syria

The repercussions of the veto are severe, leaving millions of Syrians in a state of limbo.

The Bab Al-Hawa crossing, through which 85% of UN aid previously flowed, has not seen any trucks pass through in the past two weeks. While Syria claims to have granted permission, conditions set by the Assad regime make it unsafe and impractical for aid delivery.

These conditions compromise the UN’s aid operations’ neutrality, impartiality, and independence.

These conditions compromise the UN’s aid operations’ neutrality, impartiality, and independence

The urgent need for negotiations between Russia and Syria

The northwest of Syria remains an active conflict zone, with civilians continually caught in the crossfire of attacks from all parties, including the Syrian regime and Russia.

The UK supports ongoing discussions between the UN and Syria to lift the imposed conditions, allowing much-needed aid to reach those in need.

Negotiating humanitarian access with all conflict actors is crucial to ensuring assistance to the most vulnerable, adhering to humanitarian principles.

Pursuing a sustainable solution

While short-term humanitarian assistance is vital, the lack of a Council mandate impacts longer-term early recovery efforts across Syria.

The UK emphasises the need for the Security Council to set aside political differences and take action to ensure continued access to aid for those who require it.

Additionally, Syria is urged to fulfil its international obligations and engage genuinely with the UN to address the humanitarian crisis.

Pushing for peace and progress in Syria

In the broader context, the people of Syria and the entire region desperately need a sustainable resolution to the ongoing conflict, in line with Security Council Resolution 2254.

The UK urges the resumption of constitutional committee talks in Geneva without delay or excuses, taking a step towards ending the crisis and fostering lasting peace.

A Russia-Syria diplomatic relationship

The diplomatic relationship between Russia and Syria has been characterised by a longstanding strategic alliance that has endured turbulent geopolitical challenges.

Since the Syrian civil war erupted in 2011, Russia has emerged as a vital ally of the Syrian government, providing crucial military and political support.

Moscow’s intervention has bolstered the regime of President Bashar al-Assad, enabling it to withstand the protracted conflict.

This alliance has strengthened Russia’s influence in the Middle East and served its broader geopolitical interests. However, it has also drawn international criticism due to allegations of human rights abuses and the use of military force against civilians.

As the conflict persists, the dynamics of this complex relationship continue to play a significant role in shaping the region’s stability.