This piece was reprinted by OpEd News with permission or license. It may not be reproduced in any form without permission or license from the source.
Russia and China vetoed it. Invoking UN Chapter VII, it effectively declared war.
Moscow and Beijing acted responsibly. They did so for the third time. They want conflict resolution not bombs away. They need to go further. Hopefully they'll get more assertive.
At issue is forthrightly denouncing Washington's war on Syria. Drawing a line in the sand is crucial. Raging conflict can't be tolerated. Arming and otherwise supporting their Syrian ally is vital.
The entire region's up for grabs. Both countries have vital interests at stake. Only they can protect them. Months of diplomacy failed. Realpolitik dictates assertive action. Washington understands it. It won't risk war at this time with either country.
The resolution's text in part said "the situation constitutes a threat to international peace and security."
UN Charter Chapter VII was invoked. It authorizes measures ranging from economic sanctions to blockades or direct military intervention if other measures fail.
It endorsed the June 30 Geneva agreement text. It called for ending armed conflict, implementing Annan's peace plan, adhering to provisions of Security Council Resolutions 2042 and 2043, releasing detainees, permitting humanitarian access to areas needing help, and other steps to be taken.
It called for Syrian-led political transition. Its guidelines included establishing a firm timeline. It urged avoiding further bloodshed and violence.
Next Page 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8
(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).
