The draft resolution received 13 votes out of 15 in the Security Council on Wednesday. China abstained.
The draft resolution calls on all countries, especially those with significant space capabilities, to “actively contribute to the objective of the peaceful uses of outer space, to prevent an arms race in outer space, and to refrain from actions contrary to this objective and relevant treaties in force in order to maintain international peace and security” and promote international cooperation”.
In February, several major US media outlets reported that Russia was trying to develop an anti-satellite nuclear weapon that could threaten national and international security.
The resolution also affirmed a commitment to full compliance with the Outer Space Treaty, including a commitment “not to place in Earth orbit any objects with nuclear weapons or other types of weapons of mass destruction, install such weapons on celestial bodies, or otherwise deploy such weapons in outer space.”
It emphasizes the serious consequences that can arise from the detonation of a nuclear weapon or the use of another type of weapon of mass destruction in outer space.
Washington’s ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said such a detonation could destroy thousands of satellites and “vital communications, scientific, meteorological, agricultural, commercial and national security services on which we all depend.”
