Jonathan Paul Loomis

March 8, 1999

World Politics

Dr. Greeg

UN Simulation: Russian Position

Russia's position in this particular crisis is complicated. Russia has been a long time supporter of the PLO and the Palestinian people's efforts to create their own nation. Russia has been balanced in the international forum by the United States who was always worked towards the security of the State of Israel. Russia believes that the United States has become irresponsible in its dealings in the greater Middle East and this crisis is the likely result of this excess foreign power in the region. Naturally, an established Palestinian state would promote stability in the region, increasing trade for Russia, the United States, and the European states.

However, Russia is concerned about the process by which such a Palestinian state might be established. If the Palestinians are able to force the international community into accepting their terms than this might encourage other renegade ethnic groups to try the same. Russia is especially concerned about this possibility because of the recent unrest in the Russian province of Chechnya.

Therefore, with this in mind, Russia believes that the United Nations Security Council offer a place in the General Assembly to Palestine, but in conjunction with the following resolutions.

No UN member is allowed to sell arms to Palestine (to reassure Israel).

Any state that supports the military efforts of the new Palestinian nation receives a full embargo by other UN members.

These two provisions are meant to discourage the terrorists from accepting the offer of sovereignty. As an alternative Russia will attempt to unite with France in establishing a permanent border defense force to protect both a new Palestinian state and the existing state of Israel. Russia discourages the United States from providing actual troops to the operation but is encouraged to provide economic support to both sides. Other states who are seen as neutral in the affair, such as the People's Republic of China are encouraged to become involved as well.