Russia Assumes UN Security Council Presidency Amidst Ukrainian Outrage

Russia has assumed the presidency of the UN Security Council, despite Ukraine's objections. The last time Russia held the presidency, in February 2022, it launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The role is mostly procedural, but Moscow's ambassador to the UN plans to oversee several debates, including one on arms control. Ukraine's Foreign Minister called Russia's presidency "the worst joke ever for April Fool's Day" and a "stark reminder that something is wrong with the way international security architecture is functioning". Russia's presence as a permanent member on the Security Council means it can veto resolutions.