Germany has accused Russia of helping to undermine its campaign for a seat on the UN Security Council after Berlin failed to secure election to the body for the 2027-28 term.
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Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul described the outcome as a "bitter defeat" after Germany lost out to Portugal and Austria in voting for two seats allocated to the Western European and Others Group.
Ukraine stance cited as a factor
Wadephul said Germany's strong support for Ukraine may have cost it backing among some UN member states, arguing that Russia did not want a pro-Ukraine voice on the council.
He said it was "no secret" that Moscow had sought to build opposition to Germany's candidacy.
"We have always taken a clear stance on certain issues, and these are positions that not all member states share," Wadephul said.
Russia has not responded to the allegation that it lobbied against Germany's bid.
Israel policy may have affected support
The foreign minister also suggested that Germany's longstanding commitment to supporting Israel could have reduced support for its campaign.
Wadephul said Germany's special responsibility toward Israel in the Middle East conflict may have influenced voting by some countries.
He also acknowledged that Germany entered the race relatively late, which may have contributed to the result.
Germany received 104 votes in the election, while Portugal secured 134 and Austria 131.
Setback for Merz government
The UN Security Council consists of five permanent members — China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States — and 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.
Alongside Portugal and Austria, Kyrgyzstan, Trinidad and Tobago, and Zimbabwe were elected to serve on the council. The body is the only UN institution empowered to adopt legally binding measures, including sanctions and authorisations for the use of force.
The outcome represents a setback for Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who has pledged to strengthen Germany's international influence.
Merz sought to downplay the significance of the defeat, congratulating Austria and Portugal while reaffirming Germany's commitment to the United Nations.
"This result does not alter the tasks we face at the United Nations. Germany remains a reliable pillar of the multilateral system," he said.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 4 June 2026