Russia suspended from UNHRC over Ukraine

RUSSIA, UKRAINE, VATICAN CITY: The United Nations General Assembly on Thursday suspended Russia from the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) over reports of “gross and systematic violations and abuses of human rights” by invading Russian troops in Ukraine. The UN-led push garnered 93 votes in favour, while 24 countries voted no and 58 countries abstained.

A two-thirds majority of voting members in the 193-member General Assembly in New York – abstentions do not count – was needed to suspend Russia from the 47-member Geneva-based Human Rights Council.

Suspensions are rare. Libya was suspended in 2011 because of violence against protesters by forces loyal to then-leader Muammar Gaddafi.It was the third resolution adopted by the 193-member General Assembly since Russia invaded neighbouring Ukraine on Feb 24. The two previous General Assembly resolutions denouncing Russia were adopted with 141 and 140 votes in favour. The resolution adopted on Thursday expresses “grave concern at the ongoing human rights and humanitarian crisis in Ukraine,” particularly at reports of rights abuses by Russia.

Russia says it is carrying out a “special military operation” that aims to destroy Ukraine’s military infrastructure and denies attacking civilians. Ukraine and allies say Moscow invaded without provocation.

Russia had warned countries that a yes vote or abstention will be viewed as an “unfriendly gesture” with consequences for bilateral ties.

Meanwhile, Russia on Thursday voiced regret at its suspension from the UN Human Rights Council over its invasion of Ukraine, which it said had caused “significant” troop losses, but vowed to defend its interests.

“We’re sorry about that,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in an interview with Britain’s Sky News, after the UN General Assembly voted to suspend Moscow from the rights council as punishment for the invasion.

– PTI