Sri Lanka abstains in UN vote on immediate ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia

Sri Lanka, along with India, chose not to vote in favor of a UN General Assembly resolution calling for an immediate, full, and unconditional ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. This resolution, titled ‘Support for lasting peace in Ukraine,’ was adopted on the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Out of the 193-member UN General Assembly, 107 countries supported the resolution, while 12 opposed it, and 51, including Sri Lanka, abstained. Other countries abstaining included Bahrain, Bangladesh, Brazil, China, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States. The resolution emphasized the need for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in accordance with international law, including the UN Charter. It called for the complete exchange of prisoners of war, the release of unlawfully detained individuals, and the return of all internees and civilians who were forcibly transferred or deported, especially children, as a key measure to build confidence. Additionally, it reaffirmed strong support for Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity, which includes its territorial waters. The resolution also highlighted serious concerns about the ongoing and increased attacks by Russia on civilians, civilian structures, and critical energy infrastructure, as well as the worsening humanitarian crisis.