UN Ends Western Sahara Peacekeeping Mission After U.S.-Russia Clash
The U.N. peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara, MINURSO, ceased operations on Sunday, November 1, 2026, after 35 years, removing a longstanding international presence from the disputed territory.[1]
U.N. spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said November 1, 2026, marks the start of a liquidation period overseen by a smaller U.N. team under the Department of Operational Support.[1] Russia vetoed a U.S.-drafted Security Council resolution that would have backed Moroccan sovereignty and ended MINURSO in 2027.[1] A competing Russian resolution to extend the mission was then voted down.[1] Morocco welcomed the decision, while the Polisario Front and Algeria said it undermined the peace process.[1]
MINURSO had operated for 35 years to monitor a cease-fire in the territory.[1] Diplomatic wrangling at the U.N. reflected deep divisions over Morocco's claim to the territory and the Polisario Front's demand for independence, with Algeria backing the Polisario.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- The U.N. peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara (MINURSO) ceased operations on Sunday, November 1, 2026, after 35 years.
- UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said November 1, 2026, marks the start of a liquidation period overseen by a smaller team under the Department of Operational Support.
- Russia vetoed a U.S.-drafted Security Council resolution backing Moroccan sovereignty and ending the mission in 2027, and a competing Russian resolution to extend MINURSO was then voted down.
- Morocco welcomed the mission's non-renewal, while the Polisario Front and Algeria criticized the outcome as undermining the peace process in Africa's longest territorial dispute.
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