The UN Security Council has voted against a resolution supported by Russia that would prohibit weapons in outer space.

In a recent development at the United Nations, the United States expressed concern over Russia's launch of a satellite that could potentially be used as a weapon in space. This has sparked a debate among members of the Security Council, who failed to pass a resolution against it.

The two rival drafts presented by the US and Japan, and Russia, focused on different types of weapons, with the former specifying weapons of mass destruction while the latter addressed all types of weapons. The US and its allies accused Russia of attempting to distract the world from their true intention of weaponizing space.

Deputy Ambassador Robert Wood of the US stated, "The culmination of Russia's campaign of diplomatic gaslighting and dissembling is the text before us today." On the other hand, Russia's UN ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, denied these allegations and called for support from China and other nations, stating that the vote was a "unique moment of truth for our Western colleagues."

In theory, every nation agrees that weapons should be barred from space, as reiterated by council members on Monday. However, when it came time to vote, the council was evenly split, with the measure failing to receive the required nine votes.

Paul Meyer, Canada's former ambassador for disarmament and a fellow at the Outer Space Institute, expressed concern over the negative and confrontational attitude among leading space powers. He believes that instead of engaging in constructive dialogue, these nations are more interested in scoring points against their adversaries.

The issue of weaponization of space has been a concern for powerful nations since the 1960s when the Soviet Union and the United States sent men into space. In 1967, the three nations, along with the United Kingdom, signed a treaty declaring outer space as a global commons to be used for peaceful purposes only. However, with the increasing number of nations launching spacecraft and owning satellites, this treaty has become even more crucial.

Meyer emphasizes the importance of this treaty as a conflict-prevention measure, especially with the rise of space activities by private companies. He highlights the risks involved in a potential conflict in space, which could lead to an explosion and shrapnel, disabling vital systems that millions of people around the world depend on.

In February, it was reported that the US has gathered intelligence on Russian anti-satellite weapons, which has been shared with top government officials. However, this capability is not yet operational.

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