Anna McMorrin comments on Russia and China's veto of the UN Security Council Resolution on humanitarian border crossings in Syria

“This veto puts lives on the line. The humanitarian emergency in Syria will descend to a horrifying new low if critical cross border access continues to be blocked.

“Russia and China’s veto at the security council shamelessly puts at risk a lifeline for millions of Syrians who rely on humanitarian aid for vital food, shelter and medical supplies. Now is not the time for political posturing.

“International aid stands between eating or starving or allowing COVID19 to spread unchallenged after a decade of conflict has decimated local healthcare systems and access food and clean water.

“With just days remaining to renew border access, we offer our support to the UK Government in finding a solution and urge them to work with our allies on the UN Security Council to ensure a humanitarian-first outcome to the crisis.”

Ends

Notes to Editors

1.   https://www.france24.com/en/20200707-russia-china-veto-extension-of-cross-border-aid-in-syria-un-diplomats

2.   https://www.rescue.org/press-release/david-miliband-statement-veto-un-resolution-authorizing-cross-border-aid-syria