Russia slams UNICEF for prioritizing Ukraine over Gaza in children’s crisis
A view of damage at the residential building of Palestinian Aloush family following a fresh Israeli airstrike on Jabalia after Israel and Gaza reached a ceasefire deal, in the north of Gaza City, Gaza on January 16, 2025. (AA Photo)
Russia criticized UNICEF for refusing to brief the U.N. Security Council on the dire situation of children in Gaza.
Russia’s U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia called out UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell, claiming she had briefed the council on children in Ukraine with no hesitation but declined to do the same for Gaza.
Why it matters
The refusal to brief the council comes amid the ongoing Gaza conflict, which has resulted in significant civilian casualties, particularly among children. The decision raises questions about priorities and the selective nature of international responses.
Details
- Russia’s Nebenzia questioned why UNICEF appeared to prioritize Ukraine over Gaza, given the severe impact on children in both conflicts.
- Russell was at the World Economic Forum in Davos and could not reschedule to meet the council. UNICEF offered an alternative briefing via the Director of Emergencies, but the refusal to attend in person remained a point of contention.
- The U.S. was also criticized by Russia for shielding Israel during the war by using its veto power at the Security Council. U.S. Ambassador Dorothy Shea firmly rejected these accusations.
- U.N. aid chief Tom Fletcher gave a grim assessment, revealing that over 17,000 children have been separated from their families in Gaza, and many have suffered or died due to the conflict
