A failed UN resolution has brought attention to the possibility of nuclear weapons being placed in space, a concept that may seem like science fiction but is now being considered. The United States introduced a UN resolution against an arms race in space, supported by Japan, which ultimately failed due to a veto by Russia. The draft resolution received 13 out of 15 votes in the UN Security Council, with China choosing to abstain.
The draft resolution called for all states to work towards the peaceful use of outer space and prevent an arms race, emphasizing compliance with the Outer Space Treaty. The resolution highlighted the risk and consequences of deploying nuclear weapons or other weapons of mass destruction in space, stating that such actions would have serious implications for global communications and security.
The resolution follows reports from the US government that Russia may be pursuing the installation of nuclear weapons in space, specifically targeting satellites. Russian President Vladimir Putin denied these allegations, while the US government expressed concerns about Russia’s military capabilities against satellites. Prior to the vote, US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield warned about the catastrophic impact of a nuclear explosion in space.
Despite opposition from Russia, the US, along with Germany and numerous other countries, supported the draft resolution. Russian Ambassador Vasily Nebensja criticized the resolution as propaganda and dismissed it as a ploy by the US. The resolution’s failure has raised suspicions about Russia’s intentions and its willingness to engage in arms control in space.