Council of Europe

• IAS NEXT, Lucknow
• 28, Feb 2022

Reference News:-

Russia’s membership in the Council of Europe has been suspended after its invasion of Ukraine.

What’s the issue?

Russia has launched a full-blown attack on Ukraine, with Russian forces entering the Obolon district, which is less than 10 km away from Central Kyiv – the government’s seat of power.

Resolution against Russia’s position on Ukraine:

India abstained on a US-sponsored UN Security Council resolution that “deplores in the strongest terms” Russia’s “aggression” against Ukraine, with New Delhi saying dialogue is the only answer to settling differences and disputes.

• The resolution was presented by the US and Albania, and co-sponsored by several other nations.
• The Council’s resolution reaffirmed its commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders.
• It demanded that Russia “shall immediately, completely, and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders”.

Why did India abstain?

India did not endorse the harsh language used in the resolution condemning Russia’s actions. It wants to maintain a balance between the Western bloc led by the US, and Russia, since it has strategic partners on both sides.