Costa Rica Abstains from UN Vote Condemning Russia’s Ukraine Invasion

Costa Rica abstained from the UN vote condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, despite initially co-sponsoring the resolution. The resolution, which garnered 93 votes in favor, demanded an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of Russian forces. Former leaders of Costa Rica criticized this decision, questioning the nation’s commitment to foreign policy principles.

Costa Rica has chosen to abstain from a United Nations resolution condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. During a recent assembly, representatives did not participate in the vote on a resolution that denounced the invasion as a “full-scale” attack, despite initially co-sponsoring the initiative. The resolution expressed continued support for Ukraine and its territorial integrity, which has been under threat since the inception of the conflict three years ago.

The text of the resolution emphasized the necessity for an immediate halt to hostilities and the unconditional withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukraine, adhering to internationally recognized borders. It further urged increased diplomatic efforts to prevent escalation and to pursue a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The resolution ultimately received 93 votes in favor, 18 against, and 65 abstentions.

Ambassador Maritza Chan from Costa Rica refrained from providing detailed reasons for the abstention when questioned by local media. This decision has drawn criticism, particularly from former President Laura Chinchilla, who stated, “What a shame! … Denying the facts and international law? At this rate, even Ortega might invade Costa Rica again.” Also, former President Miguel Angel Rodriguez expressed his disappointment, asserting, “I am deeply hurt by Costa Rica’s refraining from defending the principle of Ukraine’s territorial integrity.”

Thus far, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship has not clarified the motivation behind Costa Rica’s abstention from a resolution that the country initially supported. The choice not to vote has sparked a significant debate regarding the nation’s foreign policy principles and its stance on international law.

In summary, Costa Rica’s abstention from voting on the UN resolution condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has elicited considerable backlash from former leaders and commentators. The government has faced scrutiny for not articulating its reasons for the change in position from co-sponsorship to abstention, raising concerns about the implications for national foreign policy and its commitment to international law.

Original Source: ticotimes.net