US Delegation Walks Out of UN Meeting Amid Tensions

On Monday, the United States delegation exited a United Nations Security Council meeting while France’s Ambassador Jerome Bonnafont was speaking. This walkout followed France's criticism of the US for voting alongside North Korea and Russia against the extension of Volker Turk’s tenure as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

France's UN mission condemned the US's decision, stating, “The US used to be a beacon of human rights. Not anymore.” The US's protest occurred during an emergency session addressing Russia's war in Ukraine.

US Ambassador Dan Negrea indicated that the US would continue similar actions unless France alters its “condescending and disrespectful rhetoric.” The controversy arose after the General Assembly voted to renew Turk’s appointment, with 144 countries in favor, 10 against, and 13 abstaining. US Ambassador Jeff Bartos had previously criticized Turk’s reappointment, warning of a reassessment of the US's engagement with the UN, citing procedural overreach and misuse of UN posts.

France defended Turk, calling him “a voice of conscience.”.