At UN Security Council, Russian Diplomat Claims Ukrainian Roots, Prompting Sharp Kyiv Rebuttal

UN Security Council Meeting

According to Главком: During a UN Security Council session marking the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia's Permanent Representative to the UN, Vasily Nebenzya, asserted his Ukrainian heritage. He stated:

Formally, I am a Ukrainian, we are from Zaporizhzhia... My father is a genuine Ukrainian, and my mother is from Cossacks. For us, there is no difference; we are all one nation.

In response, Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister, Maryana Betsa, forcefully rejected Nebenzya's claim, emphasizing:

First, Mr. Nebenzya, you are not a Ukrainian, and do not pretend to be one. Second, we have never been and never will be one nation with Russia.

This exchange occurred as the UN continues to be a key diplomatic battleground over the war.

UN General Assembly Resolution

Separately, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution titled 'Supporting a Lasting Peace in Ukraine'. The resolution was supported by 107 states, while 12 countries voted against it, including:

• Russia
• Belarus
• North Korea
• Iran
• Cuba
• Nicaragua
• Mali
• Niger
• Sudan
• Burkina Faso
• Burundi
• Eritrea

51 states abstained from the vote.

These developments highlight the deepening international divisions over the war in Ukraine. Nebenzya's statement is seen as part of Russia's efforts to frame the conflict in terms of shared history, while Ukraine's firm response underscores its commitment to a distinct national identity. The General Assembly vote, with its broad support, demonstrates significant international backing for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, isolating Russia and a small group of allies on the world stage.