Russia's Foreign Ministry has reaffirmed its support for a peaceful solution to the Western Sahara conflict. The ministry's spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, stated that the conflict can only be resolved through political means, based on relevant UN Security Council resolutions. Zakharova made these remarks in response to questions about Russia's stance on a draft UN Security Council resolution on Western Sahara.
Zakharova emphasized that the UN Security Council must decide on extending the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) by the end of October. She noted that Russia's final position on the draft resolution will be determined after negotiations with council members. Zakharova also expressed support for the continuation of dialogue between parties to the conflict, including Morocco and the Polisario Front.
Regarding Morocco's autonomy proposal, Zakharova welcomed the resumption of discussion on the plan, which was launched by UN Security Council Resolution 2797 (2025). She stressed that a solution to the conflict must be acceptable to both parties and that Russia supports a negotiated settlement. Zakharova also noted that the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, Staffan de Mistura, will play a key role in facilitating the talks.
Zakharova reiterated Russia's commitment to a peaceful solution to the conflict, emphasizing that any initiative must be evaluated on its merits. She stated that Russia will support the implementation of any agreement reached between parties to the conflict. Zakharova's remarks reflect Russia's consistent position on the Western Sahara conflict, which emphasizes the need for a peaceful and negotiated solution.
The Western Sahara conflict has been ongoing for decades, with Morocco and the Polisario Front disputing control over the territory. The UN has been involved in efforts to resolve the conflict, including the establishment of MINURSO, which has been mandated to facilitate a referendum on the territory's future. However, a lasting solution has yet to be found.
Russia's stance on the conflict is seen as significant, given its veto power in the UN Security Council. Zakharova's remarks suggest that Russia will continue to support a peaceful solution to the conflict, while also emphasizing the need for dialogue and negotiation between parties. The international community has been calling for a resolution to the conflict, with many countries supporting Morocco's autonomy proposal.
The UN Security Council is expected to adopt a new resolution on Western Sahara by the end of October, which will likely extend the mandate of MINURSO. Zakharova's remarks indicate that Russia will continue to play a constructive role in efforts to resolve the conflict, while also emphasizing the need for a peaceful and negotiated solution.
Key points
- Russia supports a peaceful solution to the Western Sahara conflict through political means.
- Russia welcomes the resumption of discussion on Morocco's autonomy proposal.
- The UN Security Council must decide on extending the mandate of MINURSO by the end of October.
