Ukraine Calls for Russia's Removal from UN Peacekeeping Over Violence and Rights Abuses.

Demand to Exclude Russia from UN Peacekeeping Operations

According to UATV: Andriy Melnyk, Ukraine’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, has urged the international body to bar Russian nationals from participating in UN peacekeeping missions and called for Russia’s expulsion from the organization altogether. This demand stems from persistent violations of children’s rights documented in UN reports, as well as Russia’s involvement in cases of conflict-related sexual violence.

For three consecutive years, Russia has appeared in UN reports for breaching children’s rights. Notably, it has been listed among countries implicated in sexual violence during armed conflicts. Melnyk stated that

“the armed forces that the Secretary-General has once again placed on the special list for conflict-related sexual violence cannot and must not take part in any operations under the UN flag.”

He further emphasized that

“Russian personnel must be banned from participating in UN peacekeeping and police missions.”

Support for Ukraine and Adherence to International Law

In addition, Ukraine’s UN envoy called for increased deliveries of air defense systems to Ukraine, noting that ‘the new scale of Russian aerial attacks demands a significantly higher level of support for Ukraine.’ He argued that if Russia continues to disregard resolutions of the General Assembly and findings of UN bodies, it should leave the organization.

Melnyk’s push to exclude Russia from UN peacekeeping missions reflects deep Ukrainian concerns over Moscow’s actions on the global stage, which violate fundamental principles of international law. By highlighting abuses against children, Ukraine’s representative underscores the importance of ensuring safety and human rights during armed conflict. This stance may also help galvanize international backing for Ukraine, particularly in defense, as it faces intensified military assaults from Russia.