How China uses Russia to chew up the UN
As Russia threatens to paralyse the UN Security Council, China stands back
![Illustration of a large bear in the middle of the United Nations security council chamber with the flag in its mouth](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.economist.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=1424,quality=80,format=auto/content-assets/images/20240601_CND000.jpg)
IN THESE GRIM and violent times, it may seem odd to fret about diplomatic dysfunction in the United Nations Security Council. But at its best, that forum is a bulwark against anarchy. Its five permanent members—America, Britain, China, France and Russia—are balanced by a further ten governments elected to two-year terms. Responding to crises both large and obscure, council resolutions have over the years imposed sanctions, peacekeeping missions, arms embargoes or, at a minimum, international scrutiny on tyrants, terrorists and coup leaders who might otherwise enjoy complete impunity.
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This article appeared in the China section of the print edition under the headline “China uses Russia as a wrecking ball”
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