On Wednesday, October 1, 2025, Russia officially took on the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council for the month, signaling an ambitious and packed agenda for the coming weeks. The presidency, which rotates monthly among the 15 member states, places Russia at the helm of one of the UN’s most powerful bodies, responsible for maintaining international peace and security. Russian UN envoy Vassily Nebenzia, addressing a press conference to mark the start of the term, emphasized Russia’s commitment to upholding procedure, enforcing efficiency, and maintaining order during Council proceedings.
Nebenzia was clear about Russia’s approach to its leadership role, stating, “The Russian presidency is all about following the procedure, enforcing the efficiency, if needed, of course, and we will not hesitate to restore order in the chamber and demand that delegations respect it.” This statement underscores Russia’s intent to run a disciplined presidency, ensuring that discussions and debates adhere to established protocols while addressing pressing global issues. The envoy’s remarks suggest a no-nonsense approach to managing the Council’s often contentious deliberations, particularly given the complex and volatile international landscape.
A cornerstone of Russia’s presidency is its focus on strengthening ties with African nations and the African Union (AU). Nebenzia highlighted this priority, noting, “We attach particular importance to the meeting with the AU Peace and Security Council, and overall engagement with the African Union and African countries, both nationally and in our presidential capacity.” This emphasis reflects Russia’s broader geopolitical strategy to deepen its influence in Africa, a continent rich in resources and strategic importance. The envoy elaborated, saying, “This shows our commitment to strengthen even further our ties with African friends, which are historically very close.” Russia’s historical ties with African nations date back to the Soviet era, when it supported anti-colonial movements and provided economic and military assistance to several countries. Today, Russia seeks to build on these relationships, positioning itself as a counterbalance to Western influence in the region.
The meeting with the AU Peace and Security Council is expected to be a key event during Russia’s presidency, providing a platform to discuss shared priorities such as conflict resolution, peacekeeping, and regional stability. By prioritizing Africa, Russia aims to amplify the voices of African nations within the Security Council, which has often been criticized for being dominated by its five permanent members—Russia, the United States, China, the United Kingdom, and France. This focus also aligns with the growing calls for reform of the Security Council to better reflect the geopolitical realities of the 21st century, including greater representation for African countries.
Nebenzia outlined several signature events for Russia’s presidency, with a particular emphasis on addressing pressing global challenges. One of the most significant events will be an open debate on the Middle East, scheduled for October 23. Described as a mandated quarterly meeting, this session is expected to take on heightened importance under Russia’s leadership. Nebenzia noted, “It is a mandated quarterly meeting, but we have plans to elevate its level. The unfolding catastrophe in Gaza will be in the focus of the Council’s attention this day.” The conflict in Gaza, marked by ongoing violence and humanitarian crises, remains a deeply polarizing issue on the international stage. Russia’s decision to prioritize this topic signals its intent to steer the Council’s focus toward addressing the humanitarian and political dimensions of the crisis, potentially challenging narratives put forward by Western powers.
In addition to the Middle East debate, Russia will mark United Nations Day on October 24 with another high-profile open debate, this time centered on the future of the UN itself. Nebenzia framed this discussion as an opportunity to reaffirm the UN’s relevance in a rapidly changing world. “We plan to celebrate it in the Council by an open debate, which will be an opportunity to reaffirm that the UN is not a relic of the past but the unique and indispensable, adaptable mechanism for addressing most pressing challenges of the present and the future,” he said. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is expected to brief the Council during this session, lending additional weight to the discussion. This debate is likely to touch on critical issues such as the UN’s role in conflict resolution, climate change, and global governance, as well as ongoing debates about reforming the organization to make it more effective and representative.
Another key event during Russia’s presidency will be an open debate on women, peace, and security, scheduled for October 6. This topic, which has gained increasing prominence in recent years, focuses on the critical role of women in conflict prevention, resolution, and peacebuilding. Nebenzia noted that Secretary-General Guterres is also expected to brief the Council during this session, highlighting the UN’s commitment to advancing gender equality in the context of global security. The inclusion of this debate reflects Russia’s acknowledgment of the importance of gender perspectives in addressing international peace and security challenges, even as it navigates its own geopolitical priorities.
Russia’s presidency comes at a time of heightened global tensions, with ongoing conflicts in regions such as Ukraine, the Middle East, and parts of Africa dominating the Security Council’s agenda. The Council’s ability to act decisively is often hampered by divisions among its permanent members, particularly between Russia and Western powers. As president, Russia will have significant influence over the Council’s agenda, including the ability to prioritize certain issues and shape the tone of debates. However, it will also face scrutiny over its handling of sensitive topics, particularly given its own involvement in conflicts such as the war in Ukraine.
The Russian presidency will pass to Sierra Leone in November, marking the continuation of the Council’s rotating leadership. Sierra Leone’s upcoming presidency will likely bring a different perspective, particularly given its status as an African nation and its potential to further elevate African issues on the global stage. For now, however, Russia’s leadership of the Security Council promises a month of intense diplomatic activity, with a focus on critical issues ranging from regional conflicts to the future of the UN itself.
In conclusion, Russia’s assumption of the UN Security Council presidency for October 2025 sets the stage for a dynamic and potentially transformative month. By prioritizing engagement with Africa, addressing the crisis in Gaza, and reflecting on the UN’s role in global governance, Russia aims to leave a lasting impact during its tenure. While challenges such as geopolitical rivalries and procedural disputes may arise, the Russian presidency’s ambitious agenda reflects its determination to shape the Council’s work in line with its strategic priorities. As the month unfolds, the international community will be closely watching how Russia navigates its role as president and addresses the pressing issues facing the world today.
