Why Non-Western States Reject U.S. Narrative On Ukraine

UNGA: Why Non-Western States Reject US Narrative on Ukraine

Sputnik News

Earlier this week, the leaders of a number of non-Western countries departed from the Ukraine crisis agenda promoted by the West at the 77th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) and drew attention to other pressing regional and international problems.

"I think the majority of the world realizes that there is a conflict between the West (NATO/US) and Russia, it is not about Ukraine," says Earl Rasmussen, executive vice president of the Eurasia Center. "Hence, the issues have nothing to do with their own national objectives or needs. Moreover, many African and Middle East countries have been victims of Western sanctions, conflicts, and abuse. Hence the desire to stay neutral and, perhaps, quietly support someone standing up to US hegemony."

While delivering his speech on Tuesday, Sheikh Al Thani called for a peaceful solution of the Ukraine crisis, placing a bigger emphasis on other urgent issues, such as the Israeli-Palestinian standoff; the conflicts in Syria, Libya and Yemen; Afghanistan's isolation; and the problem of energy shortages.

For his part, Senegalese President and AU Chair Macky Sall raised the issue of the under-representation of Africa on the world stage: "I would like to remind you of our request for the African Union to be granted a seat within the G20, so that Africa can, at last, be represented where decisions are taken that affect 1,400,000,000 Africans." Sall also reminded the audience that the spread of terrorism in Africa is "not just an African matter," but "a global threat that falls under the primary purview of the (UN) Security Council."

When it comes to African countries, many of them are not eager to join the West's anti-Russia camp, given that Russia – as well as China – "has been very proactive in assisting" the continent, according to Rasmussen.

However, the West is not satisfied with the Global South's neutrality and is unlikely to reduce its pressure, according to the scholar. He projects that the West will try to continue support for Kiev "rather than seeking peace or recognizing Russia’s valid security concerns." Rasmussen also expects increased tensions around the world, which could include the resurrection of Daesh*, increased violence in Syria and Libya, tensions in Taiwan, Kosovo, Nagorno-Karabakh, etc.