Lavrov faces criticism over Russia's actions at UN and US tensions.

The US and Western allies criticized Russia for its ongoing war in Ukraine and accused Moscow of violating the UN Charter during a Security Council meeting chaired by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Lavrov defended Russia's "special military operation" in Ukraine and blamed the US for exacerbating geopolitical challenges around the world. The conflict has caused massive suffering and devastation to Ukraine and its people, and tensions between major powers are at a historic high. The UN Secretary-General called for the extension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, and Japan's envoy demanded an immediate withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine.