US denies visas to Russian delegation members presiding over UN Security Council

Russia complains that the US has not issued visas to the Russian delegation and has not authorized a special plane for Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Russia will preside over the UN Security Council in April

CNN reported the information.

Thus, Russian Ambassador to Washington Anatoly Antonov said, "We urge Washington not to delay issuing visas to our delegation, including our journalists. Failure to issue visas violates the obligations of the United States as the host country of the UN headquarters, hindering the proper, full functioning of the world organization."

Antonov added that the US authorities "have not agreed to the plane’s arrival" with Lavrov on board.

"We expect the Americans to promptly issue a permit for the aircraft (to enter US airspace) without any conditions or restrictions," the diplomat said.

The presidency of the UN Security Council changes every month. Each member state takes turns in the presidency. Since April, Russia has held the presidency of the UN Security Council. According to Article 24 of the UN Charter, the UN Security Council, as a permanent body, is responsible for the maintenance of international peace and security.