Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the United Nations, of which Ukraine is a permanent member, has demonstrated its complete inability to fulfill its declared functions. Over three years of war marked by the destruction of cities, the loss of thousands of lives, and widespread violations of international law, the UN has done nothing that could be considered genuine support.
An illustration by Dutch cartoonist Arend Van Dam vividly depicts the reality of the situation: a coffin labeled Ukraine with a wreath on top symbolizes the only "aid" provided to Ukraine by the UN. The meeting depicted around the coffin emphasizes the formality of discussions that have no impact on the events unfolding. This image highlights the inefficiency and helplessness of the organization in the face of war.
Ukraine and UN.
The core problem lies in the structure of the UN. The veto power of the permanent members of the Security Council makes decision-making an impossible task if it contradicts the interests of any one of them. Russia, as a permanent member, effectively blocks any attempts by the international community to take meaningful action. As a result, the aggressor country remains not only a participant but also the de facto master of the international discourse.
The resolutions of the General Assembly, which could theoretically support Ukraine, have turned out to be merely declarative documents. Appeals for respect for territorial integrity or condemnation of aggression are not accompanied by any concrete actions. Even measures such as deploying peacekeeping missions or imposing sanctions under the UN’s auspices have remained unimplemented.
The UN’s neutral stance in the face of clear aggression effectively translates into aiding the attacking side. The proclaimed "objectivity" results in inaction, while Russia’s economic and political influence within the organization allows it to manipulate processes. Ultimately, the UN becomes more of a tool in the hands of the aggressor than an independent platform for conflict resolution.
The UN today is a symbol of missed opportunities. Instead of defending international law, the organization has become paralyzed by its own system. Its inaction has not only allowed the conflict to persist but has also emboldened the aggressor with a sense of impunity. This crisis of trust calls into question the very existence of the UN as an effective institution in the modern world.
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