Russia assumed the chairmanship of the UN Security Council for a full month, taking on the role at the forefront of international discussions and crisis management. During this period, state officials outlined a plan that centers on strengthening multipolar dialogue, seeking practical resolutions in the Middle East, and addressing the ongoing challenges of arms exports that outpace controls. The aim is to foster more inclusive decision-making within the Council while ensuring that emerging powers have a stronger voice in shaping global security norms and responses.
Vasily Nebenzya, Russia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, emphasized that the upcoming sessions will prioritize broadening geopolitical dialogue, reconciling regional disputes through diplomacy, and tightening oversight of arms transfers to reduce risks of conflict and escalation. Although the agenda is broad, officials stressed that specific discussions on the Ukraine situation are not currently scheduled as formal meetings, signaling a cautious approach to avoid premature escalation while still signaling a readiness to engage on key humanitarian and strategic issues when appropriate.
Meanwhile, it is anticipated that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will chair several of the high-level sessions or participate actively in multi-country briefings, underscoring Russia’s intent to maintain a visible and constructive presence in the Security Council’s routine deliberations. This influence is expected to shape the tone of debates on topics ranging from regional security to arms regulation and the broader framework for international cooperation on peacekeeping and conflict resolution.
In a broader regional pattern, March marked Mozambique as the rotating president of the Security Council, a reminder that the presidency shifts to different member states on a monthly basis and mirrors the Council’s commitment to diverse leadership and shared responsibilities across its membership. Russia’s most recent period as chair dates back to February 2022, highlighting a return to active leadership after a hiatus and signaling a renewed interest in steering discussions on topics that touch multiple theaters of conflict and security concerns.
There is also an informal gathering planned for April 6 to address the evacuation of children from areas affected by ongoing operations, a topic that has gathered international attention due to the severe humanitarian implications. The Russian Federation plans to inform attendees about measures taken to safeguard minors from shelling and related dangers, presenting a detailed account of protective actions and emergency protocols designed to shield vulnerable populations during armed campaigns and displacement crises.
Across these proceedings, observers note the Security Council’s ongoing responsibility to balance national security interests with humanitarian obligations, ensuring that urgent protection needs are recognized alongside political and strategic considerations. The unfolding discussions are likely to touch on safeguards against civilian harm, adherence to international law, and the means by which member states coordinate to deliver aid, monitor compliance, and promote durable solutions in volatile regions. The chairmanship period thus serves not only as a procedural rotation but also as a signal of how the Council channels leadership energy toward preventing escalation and supporting civilian resilience in the face of protracted conflicts.