Russia has been strongly criticised by Britain’s foreign secretary for vetoing a United Nations Security Council resolution pressing for a ceasefire in war-torn Sudan.
David Lammy said the decision to vote against the measure was “mean, nasty and cynical” and sent a message to the warring parties in Sudan that they could act with impunity.
All other countries of the 15-member council, including China, voted in favour of the resolution drafted by Britain and Sierra Leone.
Russia accused the UK of attempting to meddle in Sudanese affairs and labelled Mr Lammy’s criticism an “excellent demonstration of British neo-colonialism”.
“We agree with all Security Council colleagues that the conflict in Sudan requires a swift resolution,” deputy Russian UN ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy told the meeting.
“It is also clear that the only way to achieve this is for the warring parties to agree to a ceasefire.”
War began in April 2023 from a power struggle between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces ahead of a planned transition to civilian rule.
The UN says more than 25 million people – half of Sudan’s population – need aid as famine has taken hold in a displacement camp. In addition, over 11 million have fled their homes, with more than three million of those leaving for other countries.
The draft resolution called on the parties to the conflict to “immediately cease hostilities and engage, in good faith, in dialogue to agree steps to de-escalate the conflict with the aim of urgently agreeing a national ceasefire”.
It also called on them to engage in dialogue to agree humanitarian pauses, ensure the safe passage of civilians and the delivery of adequate humanitarian aid.
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Mr Lammy directly criticised Russia’s ambassador Mr Polyanskiy, saying: “This Russian veto is a disgrace, and it shows to the world yet again, Russia’s true colours.
“I ask the Russian representative… how many more Sudanese have to be killed? How many more women have to be raped? How many more children have to go without food before Russia will act?”
On Sunday, the UK announced it was doubling the amount of aid to Sudan and neighbouring countries, providing more than £110m to those affected by the war.
But Sudan’s foreign ministry – which is aligned with the army – supported Russia’s veto.
In a statement, it said: “The government of Sudan commends the Russian position, which came as an expression of… respect for the sovereignty of states and international law, and support for the independence and unity of Sudan and its national institutions.”