Russia on April 24 vetoed a UN Security Council resolution sponsored by the US and Japan which called on all nations to contribute to the peaceful use of outer space and to prevent a dangerous arms race in space-based weapons. The resolution urged nations "to refrain from actions contrary to that objective and to the relevant existing treaties in the interest of maintaining international peace and security."

The draft resolution received 13 votes in favor, with one abstention from China. 

The resolution sought to reaffirm the principles set out in the 1967 Outer Space Treaty—or, more formally, the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration of Outer Space, Including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies. Article Three of the treaty obliges state parties to explore outer space in the interest of maintaining international peace and security. Article Four further compels states to "not place in orbit around the earth any objects carrying nuclear weapons or any other kinds of weapons of mass destruction."

US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas Greenfield called the move by Russia "baffling," and asked rhetorically: "Why? Why, if you are following the rules, would you not support a resolution that reaffirms them? What could you possibly be hiding?"

Russia's UN Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya dismissed the resolution as a "cynical ploy" and "absolutely absurd and politicized." Nebenzya maintained that Russia "remains committed to its obligations in outer space under international law." He also announced that Russia plans to submit an alternative draft resolution soon.

The draft resolution was announced after the US accused Russia in February of developing an anti-satellite nuclear weapon to put in space. This could potentially disrupt everything from military communications to phone-based services. President Vladimir Putin and Moscow's ministry of defense have denied the accusations, stating that Russia is against the any deployment of nuclear weapons in space.

From Jurist, Apri 25. Used with permission.

Note: The resoution follows growing nuclear threats from Russian officials, the deployment of Russian nuclear weapons in neighboring Belarus, and Moscow's withdrawal from numerous arms-control agreements.