Twice, Russia and China vetoed U.N. resolutions which would have ensured that lifesaving humanitarian aid could reach millions of suffering Syrians through vital border crossings. The remaining 13 members of the Security Council, along with U.N. leaders and nongovernmental organizations serving Syrians, strongly and publicly advocated for the renewal and reopening of three border crossings. The recent events at the United Nations have confirmed Vladimir Putin’s and Xi Jinping’s priorities. First, Russia continues to reach new lows in its quest to maintain a foothold in Syria and along the Mediterranean. The United Nations has reported that Russia has assisted in the bombing of hospitals and civilian centers across Syria.

Source: International New York Times July 20, 2020 09:00 UTC