The United States has expressed its stance on the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) during a United Nations General Assembly plenary meeting. The U.S. representative criticized R2P as a "dangerous concept," arguing that it leads to selective and politicized interventions under the guise of humanitarian concern, ultimately destabilizing international order.
The U.S. emphasized that respect for state sovereignty is essential for international peace and stability, stating, "The United States will always act in accordance with our national interest and will not subordinate our sovereignty to shifting international norms."
Highlighting concerns over specific countries, the U.S. pointed to China's treatment of Uyghurs as an example of genocide and crimes against humanity. The statement called on China to cease abuses in Xinjiang, including arbitrary imprisonment and forced labor.
Regarding Myanmar, the U.S. condemned the military regime's violence since the 2021 coup, which has resulted in over 3.5 million internally displaced people. The U.S. appreciated UN Special Envoy Julie Bishop's efforts to resolve the crisis.
In Sudan, escalating conflict and reported attacks on civilians by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) were highlighted as unacceptable. The U.S. called for an immediate end to violence and urged for unhindered humanitarian access.
The address concluded with a call for all member states to advance respect for human life and work towards ending conflicts and restoring peace.