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US abstains on UN vote for lasting peace in Ukraine, drawing criticism from ex-envoy
The United States abstained during a UN General Assembly vote on a resolution supporting long-term peace in Ukraine, prompting criticism from former special envoy to Ukraine under President Donald Trump, Keith Kellogg, Bloomberg reports.
UN vote details
The resolution called for:
- an immediate ceasefire;
- recognition of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity;
- reinforcement of the UN Charter on the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
The measure was supported by 107 countries, opposed by 12—including Russia—and 51 abstained, including the US.
Kellogg criticizes US decision
Keith Kellogg sharply criticized Washington’s stance, tweeting: “The UN voted for lasting peace in Ukraine, and we abstained. Think about that. This is not a business deal—this is war.”
US position
US Deputy Ambassador to the UN, Tammy Bruce, explained that Washington continues efforts to end the war but had reservations about the resolution’s wording. She noted that the text might distract from ongoing diplomatic negotiations rather than advance a peaceful solution.
Context
The vote occurred amid active international discussions on possible diplomatic paths to end the conflict and coordinate approaches for future negotiations.
Background
Previously, on February 24, 2025, the UN General Assembly passed the resolution “Supporting the achievement of comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine,” initiated by Ukraine with co-sponsorship from more than 50 countries. The resolution, backed by 93 nations, called on Russia to immediately and unconditionally withdraw its troops from Ukrainian territory.
