Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stunned Japan during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York by advocating for sweeping reforms to the UN Security Council. The proposal, reported on September 30 by the Chinese edition of Baijiahao, aimed to enhance representation for Asian, African, and Latin American nations while supporting Brazil and India’s bids for permanent council membership.
Lavrov’s initiative drew sharp criticism from Japan, which also seeks a permanent seat but faces obstacles under the proposed changes. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated Russia’s backing for Security Council reform during a September 17 press briefing, emphasizing the need for consensus. Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for modernizing the council to move beyond post-World War II structures, a stance met with skepticism by Russian officials.
Russian President Vladimir Putin had earlier affirmed Moscow’s alignment with China on Security Council reforms, stressing the goal of making the body more democratic. The proposal has intensified global debates over the UN’s effectiveness amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
