US Ambassador to the UN Condemns Russia's 'Violent Actions'

Nikki Haley, the new US Ambassador to the UN, criticized Russia during her first session in the Security Council, emphasizing that sanctions against Moscow will not be lifted until the country returns Crimea to Ukraine. On February 3rd, at the UN headquarters in New York, she stated, "I find it unfortunate that in my first appearance [at the Security Council], I must condemn Russia's violent actions." The US Ambassador made these remarks in a Security Council session, where both the US and Russia hold veto power. Haley added, "These [statements] should not have to be made... We seek better relations with Russia. Nevertheless, the situation in eastern Ukraine demands that we clearly and strongly condemn Russia's actions." The US Ambassador stressed that sanctions against the Russian Federation will continue until it returns Crimea to Ukrainian territory. Following protests in Ukraine that led to the ousting of the Moscow-backed government and the rise of a pro-Western government, Russia took actions that the West considers "interference in Ukraine's internal affairs." In the winter of 2014, Russia annexed the Crimean Peninsula. While Moscow is accused of supporting separatist militants in eastern Ukraine, it denies these allegations and claims it has the right to "defend the rights of Russian minorities." Vladimir Putin, during the signing of the annexation document, stated that his government acted against what he described as "the West's conspiracy to bring Ukraine into its sphere of influence." The annexation of Crimea and other allegations led to the imposition of sanctions by the US and Europe against Moscow. Haley's remarks highlighted that "it is not only eastern Ukraine that suffers due to Russia's violent actions. The US continues to condemn [Russia's actions] and calls for an immediate end to Russia's occupation of Crimea." Vitaly Churkin, Russia's Ambassador to the UN, rejected Haley's statements but also welcomed her. According to Reuters, Churkin said after Haley's remarks, "Considering the subject matter and its context, [Haley's statements] were friendly enough." The Russian Ambassador noted, "If there is an opportunity to improve relations with the United States, if there is a chance to cooperate better with America... then we should take advantage of this opportunity." Donald Trump, shortly before his presidency began, stated in an interview with the Wall Street Journal that sanctions against Russia would remain for some time, but if Moscow helps the US, there would be no reason to maintain the sanctions. After taking office, during a press conference with the British Prime Minister, he stated that it is still too early to discuss lifting sanctions. The 45th President of the United States and his Russian counterpart had their first phone conversation on February 28th. Trump had promised during his election campaign to establish better relations with Russia. European media report that officials on the continent are concerned about the future of sanctions against Russia.