Explanation of Vote by First Deputy Permanent Representative Dmitry Polyanskiy Following the Adoption of a UNSC Resolution on Yemen Sanctions
Madam President,
The Russian Federation has voted in favor of the draft resolution submitted by the United Kingdom on extending the Yemen sanctions regime and renewing the mandate of the Yemen Panel of Experts established pursuant to UNSC resolution 2140 for another 12 months. This “technical” extension seems optimal in the current circumstances, since it makes it possible to preserve the unity within the Council on the Yemen file in the context of heightened regional instability.
At the same time, we call on our colleagues not to forget that the Security Council's restrictions are intended to contribute to the stabilization of the situation and facilitate the establishment of peace and security. They are not designed to serve as a tool for punishing “inconvenient” political forces in the country, and much less for provoking tension between the states of the region. Yemen is no exception.
We also reject a broader interpretation of the provisions of the Council's sanctions resolutions, which do not provide for the high seas inspection of vessels heading for Yemen, nor for the shipment of military supplies seized as part of such inspections to third countries, so that these supplies could be subsequently used for their intended purpose.
Thank you for your attention.
