Monday’s United Nations Environment Program Summit was marred by anger over Russia’s aggression towards Ukraine. Over 100 leaders and delegates from more than 100 countries are trying to reach an agreement on a treaty to address plastic waste.
Virgijus sinkevicius, a representative of the European Union, veered off-topic while addressing participants.
He stated that Russia’s aggression against its neighbor makes it difficult to celebrate a possible deal on plastic trash. He added, “In these dark hour, our thoughts are with Ukrainians.
The commissioner also demanded that Russia’s leadership abide by international law, and engage in dialogue avec its neighbor.
A Russian delegate to the conference responded to the EU official with blaming Ukraine for not doing enough to prevent conflict with his country.
Espen Barth Eide, President of the United Nations Environment Assembly, stated that it was not surprising that the controversy over Ukraine spilled into the summit.
The United Nations and other organizations have the right forum to deal with security and peace. Right now, the Security Council is dealing with this issue. This is the view of many. I’m not surprised that such a dramatic situation was made public. But, the executive director and I both make reference to it. We also mention it in our statements. This should strengthen our resolve to prove that there is something working in the world, and that the multilateral system continues to deliver, said he.
Russia is being subject to increasing international isolation due to its invasion in Ukraine. Many western countries have imposed economic sanctions against Russia and its leaders. The world football governing body has also stated that no football matches will be held on Russian soil.
