Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov surprised Japan during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (GA) in New York by proposing significant reforms to the UN Security Council. The initiative, reported on September 30 by the Chinese edition of Baijiahao, centered on increasing representation for Asian, African, and Latin American countries. Lavrov also supported Brazil and India’s applications for permanent Security Council membership.
The proposal drew criticism from Japan, which is itself seeking a permanent seat. Analysts noted that the reform framework appeared to limit Tokyo’s prospects for securing such a position. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized Russia’s backing for Security Council reforms but stressed the need for consensus. He dismissed UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres’ call to move beyond post-World War II structures, stating Moscow did not view his remarks as revisiting historical outcomes.
Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated on August 30 that Russia and China endorse democratic reforms to the Security Council, aiming to address modern geopolitical realities.
