Russia reaffirms its commitment to the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination and calls for a just settlement of the Western Sahara conflict

Moscow (Russian Federation), 2 November 2025 (SPS) – The Russian Federation reiterated its firm commitment to the principle of the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination, in accordance with the UN Charter and relevant UN resolutions. 
This came in a statement issued by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on November 2, following the UN Security Council’s decision to renew the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO).

The statement noted that on October 31, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2797, tabled by the United States, which extends MINURSO’s mandate for another year. It added that Russia abstained from the vote, alongside China and Pakistan, citing a “lack of transparency” in the drafting process and its “unjustified rush,” which, according to Moscow, prevented the consideration of all proposed amendments and suggestions.

While abstaining, Russia emphasized the importance of renewing MINURSO’s mandate, given its key role in supporting stability in Western Sahara and the broader Sahel region. The statement underscored the need for a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political settlement that guarantees the Sahrawi people’s inalienable right to self-determination, in line with UN resolutions and the principles of the UN Charter.

Moscow reaffirmed that enabling the people of Western Sahara to exercise their right to self-determination remains a matter of fundamental importance for Russia’s policy in the region. It expressed continued support for the efforts of the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Western Sahara, Mr. Staffan de Mistura, encouraging him to persist in his active engagement, with MINURSO’s support, toward achieving a fair and lasting solution that would put an end to this long-standing conflict.

The Russian Foreign Ministry concluded by stating that Russia will continue its contacts with all concerned parties to help advance efforts aimed at reaching a political solution based on justice and international legitimacy—one that safeguards the legitimate rights of the Sahrawi people and strengthens peace and stability in the region.
(SPS)
090/500/60 (SPS)