Serbia Retracts Vote on UN Resolution Condemning Russia's Actions in Ukraine; Cites Procedural Issues

Serbia withdrew its vote from a UN General Assembly resolution condemning Russia's aggression against Ukraine. The announcement was made by Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Djuric. According to the minister, the Serbian mission to the UN officially notified the secretariat of the organization about the change. The country's vote was altered from "yes" to "abstained." The resolution, which demands the cessation of hostilities and emphasizes the need for a peaceful resolution, was adopted on February 24. It was prepared by the European Union and Ukraine. Ninety-three countries voted in favor, including Serbia initially, while 18 countries, including the USA, Russia, Israel, and Hungary, voted against. Sixty-five countries, including China, abstained. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic stated that Serbia was pressured to support the resolution and faces blackmail. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed that Moscow understands the challenges Serbia faces regarding this vote.