US Blocks UNSC’s Vote For Global Ceasefire Over Reference To WHO

Geneva: The United States blocked a vote on a UN Security Council resolution calling for a global ceasefire amid COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Trump administration objected to an indirect reference to the World Health Organisation (WHO) since the US has been critical of the UN health agency over its early response to the coronavirus outbreak.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had called for a global ceasefire and cessation of hostilities to demonstrate unity in the fight against the pandemic. 

The security council resolution was in line with the UN chief’s call and intended to show global support for the call but the US wanted no reference to the WHO in it.

The US is the largest contributor to the WHO, offering more than USD 400 million each year.