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My strongest memory of #KofiAnnan was in November 1998. The Security Council was debating the Butler report on Iraq, but Butler had already provided the report to the US, which was preparing an attack on Iraq. This created great tension in the Council. >>
My strongest memory of #KofiAnnan was in November 1998. The Security Council was debating the Butler report on Iraq, but Butler had already provided the report to the US, which was preparing an attack on Iraq. This created great tension in the Council. >>
Others believed the Council had to decide whether Butler's findings warranted a military response. #KofiAnnan sat quietly in the room, only listening. Suddenly, CNN broke the new: The US had already started the bombing campaign - completely disregarding the UNSC debate.
Lavrov, who was Russia's UN Ambassador at the time, was furious. Other States brutally criticized the US - in the private room of the Council. Later, in the public gathering, however, their criticism was much more muted, fearing US retaliation.
#KofiAnnan did the opposite.
#KofiAnnan did the opposite.
#KofiAnnan sat quietly in the internal discussion, I don't recall him speaking at all.
But in public, tho, he delivered a blistering critique of the US's disregard of international norms and the authority of the Council.
I can only imagine what he'd say today about Trump...
But in public, tho, he delivered a blistering critique of the US's disregard of international norms and the authority of the Council.
I can only imagine what he'd say today about Trump...
