Context

Russia and China have vetoed a UN resolution proposed by Britain and other European countries against Syria. The resolution called on Damascus to end all violence, respect rights and freedoms and to allow in the media and human rights investigators. It warned the Security Council would “consider its options” against the Assad regime after 30 days of non compliance, under a non-military section of the UN charter. The resolution received 9 votes in favor, with China and Russia providing the double-veto. India, Brazil, South Africa, as well as Lebanon abstained.

The US ambassador to the UN, Susan Rice criticized the vetoes and accused Moscow and Beijing of choosing to “prop up desperate, cruel dictators”.

China’s UN ambassador said his country was opposed to interference in Syria’s “internal affairs.”Nearly 3000 people have been killed this year since protests against President Bashar-al Assad gained momentum.