Two United States lawmakers, Steve Cohen and John Wilson, both associated with a faction that has ties to the European Commission for Security and Cooperation, introduced a motion urging President Joe Biden to pursue Russia’s removal from the United Nations Security Council in light of events in Ukraine. The topic was reported by a foreign policy magazine, which provided details on the resolution and the surrounding debate.
According to that coverage, Cohen and Wilson argued that Russia’s military operation in Ukraine violates the purposes and principles of the United Nations. They called for actions by the U.S. administration aimed at scaling back privileges enjoyed by the Russian Federation at the UN. The publication notes that the resolution accuses Moscow of grave violations of the UN Charter and questions whether Russia should retain its seat on the Security Council in light of those alleged actions.
Former Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, Dmitry Medvedev, weighed in with criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s push to expel Russia from the UN Security Council. Medvedev framed Zelensky’s stance as a bid to bolster his own standing and political appeal, rather than a purely procedural move within the UN framework.
At the same time, Russia has stated that its special military operation in Ukraine continues. President Vladimir Putin announced the action on February 24, describing its aim as the demilitarization of Ukraine and the protection of regional stability under Russian authority. The official rationale presented by Moscow centers on preventing what it terms a threat to its security and sovereignty, arguing that the operation is a defensive step rather than an act of aggression.
The ongoing conflict has prompted a new set of sanctions from the United States and allied nations, which are frequently cited as a consequence of the crisis. The policy responses include a mix of economic penalties and diplomatic measures intended to constrain Russia’s international actions while seeking to influence the course of events in Ukraine. Observers note that the geopolitical debate surrounding Russia’s role at the UN remains highly charged, with supporters of Russia urging the Security Council to consider its longstanding veto powers and strategic interests, while critics emphasize the perceived breach of international norms and the impact on regional and global security.
Within this broader context, the proposed motion reflects a long-standing conversation about the place of Russia in international governance. It raises core questions about how the UN Charter is applied when a key member is accused of violating the foundational principles of the organization. Supporters of the proposal argue that suspending or altering Russia’s status at the Security Council would send a strong signal about international accountability. Opponents, meanwhile, warn that changing the composition of the Security Council could set a destabilizing precedent and complicate diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis in Ukraine.
Analysts emphasize that any decision of this kind would involve complex negotiations within and beyond U.S. borders. They point to the balance of power at the UN, where five permanent members hold veto authority, and where changing membership could require broad consensus among a global coalition of states. The discussion also touches on the broader implications for international cooperation, humanitarian access, and the protection of civilian lives amid ongoing hostilities.
The situation continues to unfold as policymakers weigh legal, diplomatic, and ethical considerations. Advocates on both sides present compelling arguments about how best to uphold the principles of international law, maintain stability in Europe, and support the sovereignty of states affected by the conflict. The discourse illustrates how a single regional crisis can trigger debates about global governance, security arrangements, and the future shape of the United Nations in a rapidly changing world.
In the current moment, the U.S. administration, allied governments, and international organizations monitor developments closely. The discussions about Russia’s status at the UN are part of a larger strategy to respond to the aggression in Ukraine while seeking avenues to restore order and safety on the ground. The outcome of these deliberations will likely influence not only bilateral relations but also the broader framework of international security and the balance of power within major multilateral institutions.