UNSC Rejects Russia-Backed Space Weapons Ban Resolution

TL/DR –

The US has claimed that Russia launched a satellite last week that could contribute to the weaponization of space. This development was condemned by members of the United Nations Security Council, though a measure against it failed to pass. The US and its allies assert that Russia’s intention is to weaponize space, while Russia denies these claims and insists that if the Western countries do not support their resolution, it will prove their intent to militarize outer space themselves.

US Accuses Russia of Weaponizing Space

The United States has accused Russia of launching a satellite last week that could potentially be a part of weaponizing space, a potential global trend that the United Nations Security Council members have condemned, failing to pass a measure against it.

Security Council Resolutions

A resolution by Russia was countered by one backed by the U.S. and Japan, which failed last month. The U.S. and Japan focused on weapons of mass destruction, while Russia’s draft covered all types of weapons.

US and Allies React

The U.S. and its allies argue that Russia’s motive is to distract the world from its true intention of weaponizing space. “The culmination of Russia’s campaign of diplomatic gaslighting and dissembling is the text before us today,” U.S. deputy ambassador Robert Wood said.

Russia’s Response

Russia’s U.N. ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, backed by China, denied any attempt to mislead the world. He described the vote as “a unique moment of truth for our Western colleagues.”

Council Vote

Every nation expressed a desire to ban weapons from space. However, the council vote was a 7-7 split between the U.S. and Russia supporters, with Switzerland abstaining. The measure didn’t pass due to lack of nine votes.

Space Power Tensions

Since the onset of space exploration, leading space powers have worried about enemies using outer space to attack. In 1961, the Soviet Union and the United States initiated manned space flights, signing a treaty six years later with the United Kingdom, stating space as a global commons for peaceful purposes only.

Although space-based communication, reconnaissance, and weather tools are essential for warfare, the 1967 Outer Space Treaty mandates nations to keep their weapons on Earth. This treaty’s importance has grown as more nations and private companies operate in space, with about 80 countries having their own satellites.

US Intelligence on Russia

The U.S. has obtained sensitive intelligence on Russian anti-satellite weapons, as confirmed by four individuals briefed on the intelligence in February. However, this capability is reportedly not yet operational.

—
Read More US News