The Bottom Line Upfront

Russia vetoed a draft resolution at the United Nations that aimed to prevent the placement of nuclear weapons in orbit, causing further tension with the US. The resolution, sponsored by the US and Japan, called for prohibiting the deployment of nuclear weapons in Space, in compliance with the Outer Space Treaty.

The Breakdown

  • Russia's veto of the resolution indicates that it is not willing to give up on developing its anti-satellite weapons, despite US pressure. This raises concerns about the potential militarization of Space and the threat it poses to satellite constellations.
  • Russia was the only country to vote against the resolution, while China abstained. Thirteen other members of the UN Security Council voted in favor of the resolution.
  • Russia and China have been advocating for a ban on all weapons in Space, while the US and Japan's resolution focused specifically on nuclear weapons.
  • The rejection of the resolution highlights the ongoing competition and rivalries in Space between major powers. It also underscores the need for international cooperation and agreements to prevent an arms race in Outer Space.