DISEC
STUDY GUIDE
Agenda: Russia vs. Ukraine
Letter from EB
Greetings Delegates,
It is my distinct honor to present this Disarmament and International Security Commitee
on the ongoing worldly security issues between Russia and Ukraine. This committee is
set to operate at a dynamic and rapid pace, offering a thrilling journey filled with
unexpected developments. I am eagerly anticipating the innovative proposals and
strategies that will be put forth by the participating delegates in the form of committee
directives.
This is a UN simulation at the organizational, structural and functional levels. We will
follow the UNA-USA Rules of Procedure , in particular, and try to incorporate Working
Methods of the Peacebuilding Commission towards achieving our goal of understanding
the agenda. Importance will be placed on traditional methods of diplomatic courtesy,
adherence to foreign policy, sovereign exercise of functions, and methodical negotiations.
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malpractices. As a representative at the conference, Members shall be bound by the codes
of conduct, policies and regulations of the conference and the DISEC. Needless to say,
we expect the highest possible standard of commitment from all members involved.
Considering the nature of the subjects under discussion, delegates will encounter content
that could potentially evoke strong reactions as it involves sensitive topics such as racism,
sexism, homophobia, drug abuse, and sexual abuse. We acknowledge that certain actions
taken during committee sessions might inadvertently affect marginalized groups.
Therefore, we kindly request that all participants maintain a high level of consideration
and sensitivity towards and potential insensitive behaviour or language. It is of utmost
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First and foremost, you are advised not to be disheartened by the size of the background
guide but to try to understand why something is there in the guide. Kindly take your time
in going through the guide. With the hope that you will enhance the quality of this
meeting with your substantive participation, we invite you to be a part of this Security
Council meeting. We are looking forward to working with you all.
Disarmament and International Security committee:
DISEC, known as the Disarmament and International Security committee, held the
distinction of being the inaugural committee within the United Nations General
Assembly, marking a crucial milestone in laying the foundation for the comprehensive
United Nations body we recognize today. Established in 1945, the same year that
witnessed the signing of the UN Charter, this committee's primary aim was to thwart the
recurrence of conflicts and promote global stability, a mission it has steadfastly pursued
beyond the conclusion of World War II.
Charged with addressing matters concerning military buildup, security, terrorism, and the
far-reaching socio-political consequences stemming from the proliferation of arms,
DISEC's contributions have resonated across multiple historical epochs. It has generated
potential remedies in the aftermath of World War II, throughout the tense period of the
Cold War, and in response to subsequent internal and cross-border conflicts. DISEC
operates in close coordination with the United Nations Disarmament Commission and the
principles established in the Geneva Conference, affording the ability to retrospectively
assess contemporary global events. Resolutions sanctioned by DISEC carry considerable
weight in shaping international armaments and are pivotal in sustaining worldwide
harmony.
Moreover, the Disarmament and International Security committee serves as a precursor to
gatherings of the Security Council, as many of the topics under discussion are channeled
to the latter for deeper evaluation. Nations are empowered to propose potential
resolutions for enduring military queries, thereby fostering enriching, constructive
discussions.
Russia - Ukraine Crisis:
Introduction:
The ongoing situation involving the Russian Federation and Ukraine has reached a
critical juncture, as Russian military forces are now crossing the borders of both Russia
and Belarus. Recent satellite imagery has revealed a substantial buildup of the Russian
Federation's military capabilities. The circumstances within Ukraine have become
extremely dire, prompting President Volodymyr Zelensky to implement martial law due
to the imminent and severe attacks targeting Kyiv and other significant Ukrainian cities
like Kharkiv, Odessa, and Mariupol.
Despite Ukrainian forces successfully holding off the onslaught of Russian attacks, it is
becoming increasingly evident that the Ukrainian defenses will eventually be breached by
Russian troops. To strengthen their defense efforts, President Zelensky has mandated that
all Ukrainian men aged 18 to 65 are now considered members of the Ukrainian military.
Additionally, to augment their defense capabilities, Ukraine has been receiving shipments
of arms from various countries across the globe, particularly from the Baltic States, the
United States, and the United Kingdom. These shipments predominantly include
advanced weaponry such as the man-portable air-defense system (MANPAD) launcher,
known as the Stinger, as well as the next-generation anti-tank launcher, NLAW. Germany,
Finland, and Sweden have also dispatched significant numbers of Javelin missile
launchers, recognized as the world's most effective anti-tank launchers. As these
international shipments continue to pour into Ukraine, the impact of these weapons on the
defensive efforts is clearly visible, with destroyed tanks and armored Russian vehicles
strewn across battlefields throughout the country.
I. Key Terms:
a. United Nations Charter: Enacted on June 26, 1945, the United Nations Charter
stands as the foundational treaty of the intergovernmental organization known as the
United Nations.
b. Permanent Member: Designates the five member states that possess consistent
membership status within the United Nations Security Council.
c. Non-Permanent Member: According to Article 23 of the United Nations Charter, ten
of the fifteen Council members are elected by the General Assembly for two-year terms
to serve on the Security Council.
d. Sanctions: Sanctions represent enforcement measures employed by the Security
Council to advance their objectives. They can manifest as economic sanctions, arms
embargoes, travel restrictions, and more.
e. Arms embargo: Measure imposed by one or more countries, international
organizations, or regional bodies to restrict the transfer of arms and military equipment to
a specific country or conflict zone.
e. Peacekeeping Missions: United Nations peacekeeping missions, authorized by the
Security Council, are tasked with providing security, political support, and peacebuilding
assistance to nations grappling with conflict or transitioning from conflict. These
missions are guided by principles including the consent of the host nation, impartiality,
and the non-use of force except for self-defense, safeguarding the mandate, or protection
purposes.
II. Background Context
The Rise and Fall of the Soviet Union
Vladimir Lenin, an intellectual and political revolutionary, found inspiration in the ideas
and theories of Karl Marx. He emerged as a prominent figure within the developing
Marxist circles in Russia, expressing discontent with the existing government. The
execution of Lenin's brother, Aleksandr, following a failed assassination attempt on
Aleksandr III, further intensified his anti-government sentiments. Lenin formulated his
own brand of communist ideology, known as Marxism-Leninism. This theory advocated
for a revolutionary overthrow of the capitalist government by a "vanguard party" through
any necessary means.
The first major instance of revolutionary action unfolded on January 9th, 1905, during
Nicholas II's rule. Dissatisfied with the empire's governance structure, a group of St.
Petersburg workers marched to the capital to demand change. The confrontation turned
violent, resulting in the deaths and injuries of numerous unarmed workers at the hands of
the capital's security forces. This incident became infamous as the "Bloody Sunday
Massacre." In response, the tsar established a parliament named the Duma, promising
democracy as a measure to address growing civil unrest. The Duma coexisted with the
tsar's rule from 1905 until 1917.
Simultaneously, civil unrest continued to escalate. Russia's losses in the Russo-Japanese
War of 1907 and its entry into World War I in 1914 accelerated dissatisfaction among the
populace. The country struggled through the war, with hundreds of thousands of lives lost
until the German army defeated Russian forces in 1915. While there was a temporary
improvement in Russia's war outlook with the Austrian defeat in the Brusilov Offensive
of 1916, the war had crippled Russia's economy, political stability, and food supply.
Throughout its involvement in the global conflict, Russia's common people endured
worsening living conditions due to food shortages, diseases, and discontent.
Protests, strikes, and demonstrations burgeoned in the streets as discontent deepened
among the lower classes. On February 23rd, 1917, around 150,000 to 200,000 textile
workers rallied in response to dwindling flour supplies. In the following days, the protest
took on increasingly political tones, culminating in military action and violence that
plunged Petrograd into anarchy as the tsar's military struggled to control the situation. On
February 27th, Tsar Nicholas II abdicated the throne, attempting to pass control to his
brother Michael, who declined, thereby ending the 300-year reign of the Romanov
dynasty over the Russian Empire.
Following the fall of tsarist rule, two rival powers vied for dominance in Russia. The first
was an interim government established by the Constitutional Democratic Party, aiming to
govern until a constitutional regime could be instituted. The second power was more
radical—the Petrograd Soviet, comprised of Bolsheviks, radical intellectuals, and the
working class, advocating for a transition to socialism in Russia. These factions issued
conflicting decrees in a tumultuous power struggle. The provisional government led by
the Constitutional Democrats failed to ensure the people's rights or address the dire state
of Russia's economy, food supply, and overall situation.
On October 25th, 1917, the Marxist ideologies of the intellectuals, combined with
widespread civil unrest and the surging popularity of the Bolshevik party, culminated in
the Bolshevik Revolution. Vladimir Lenin rallied his followers, primarily peasants and
workers, under the banner of "Bread, Peace, and Land," demanding an end to the
provisional government. Led by Lenin and aided by Leon Trotsky, the Bolsheviks seized
control of key buildings in the capital and, with the assistance of Trotsky, took over the
Winter Palace. This marked the successful and mostly bloodless overthrow of the
Constitutional Democratic Party's provisional government.
Vladimir Lenin now stood at the helm of the newly formed Soviet Union. Among his
initial actions was the initiation of peace negotiations with the Central Powers to
terminate Russia's disastrous participation in World War I. Under the guidance of Leon
Trotsky, appointed Commissar of International Affairs, the Brest-Litovsk Treaty was
negotiated with Germany, Russia's rival. This March 1918 treaty conceded parts of
western Russia and Ukraine to Germany until an armistice was reached in November
1918 and the territories were returned.
Opponents to Lenin's socialist ideals emerged in the form of the "Whites," an
anti-communist group. The Whites received support from Britain, the United States, Italy,
and other Allies from World War I. Conversely, "the Reds" represented the
pro-communist movement in Russia. Led by Trotsky, these forces clashed with the
Whites in a Civil War spanning from 1918 to 1921.
Peasant uprisings prompted Lenin to shift his governance approach in 1921. Instead of
continuing the War Communism policy, Lenin introduced the New Economic Policy.
This policy prohibited factionalism, retained government ownership of industries and the
economy, and eventually revitalized the Soviet Union's economy.
In 1922, the Russian territories including Ukraine, Belorussia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and
Armenia united following the Reds' triumph in the Civil War. The Soviet Union
established an official constitution and became the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics
(USSR) in 1922. Vladimir Lenin passed away in 1924, leaving the fledgling Soviet
Union in the hands of an unexpected successor: Joseph Stalin.
Joseph Stalin governed the former Soviet Union as Secretary-General for nearly a
quarter-century until his untimely demise in March 1953. During his tenure as the Head
of State, he guided the Soviet Union through World War II and nurtured a robust
military-industrial complex, leading to the development and production of the nuclear
bomb in 1949. The detonation of the nuclear bomb in 1949 positioned the Soviet Union
as the world's second nuclear power. Stalin's era saw intensive urbanization within the
Soviet Union driven by economic growth, particularly in the military sector. However,
this left those in the agricultural sector lagging behind due to significant migration to
urban areas. While the Soviet Union witnessed notable economic growth under Stalin's
leadership, the expanding industrial-military complex did not translate to improved living
conditions for the average citizen. The majority of Soviet citizens continued to reside in
rural areas and faced economic hardships. Stalin's leadership marked the end of an era
without the presence of a ruling oligarchy.
The formal dissolution of the Soviet Union took place in December 1991. However, the
collapse of the Soviet Union had been unfolding for years prior to its official end, with
the initial indicator being the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. The dismantling of the
Berlin Wall began in 1989, gradually breaking down the barrier that had separated East
and West Berlin for over 25 years. During a presidential visit to Europe in 1987, United
States President Ronald Reagan delivered a memorable speech in West Berlin, famously
uttering the words, "Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate! Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall."
This speech, carried by radio broadcasts that reached as far as Moscow due to favorable
weather conditions, highlighted the sentiment of change in the air. Although the actual
destruction of the Berlin Wall began in 1989—two years after Reagan's address—it was
not fully removed until 1994, three years after the official collapse of the Soviet Union.
The initial destruction of the wall signaled the beginning of the Soviet Union's complete
breakdown.
Within the Kremlin, tensions were brewing even among high-ranking political officials.
This tension was exemplified in August 1991 when a coup was attempted against Mikhail
Gorbachev, the General Secretary of the Soviet Union. The coup unfolded while
Gorbachev was on vacation at a Crimean resort. Executed by four individuals from
Gorbachev's inner circle—Valery Boldin, Oleg Baklanov, Oleg Shenin, and Gen. Valentin
Varennikov—the coup involved cutting off outside communication to Gorbachev's
residence. They demanded that Gorbachev transfer emergency powers to Gennady
Yanayev, his second-in-command. The coup received considerable support from fellow
cabinet members within the Kremlin. False radio broadcasts spread across the Soviet
Union, falsely reporting that a medical emergency had rendered Gorbachev incapacitated.
For the neighboring Soviet Republics, the coup exposed a vulnerability within the Soviet
Union. While the coup ultimately failed, the response of Soviet Republics hastened the
demise of the Soviet Union in 1991. One after another, democratic votes led Soviet
Republics to secede from the union until only Russia remained as a member.
Ukraine's Path to Independence from the Russian Federation
Ukraine's emergence as a sovereign nation traces back to the dissolution of the Soviet
Union in 1991. Over the course of 30 years, Ukraine has marked its freedom from the
puppet government imposed by the Soviet Union. The significance of this achievement is
celebrated every August 24th, commemorating the resounding decision made by the
Ukrainian Parliament to exit the Soviet Union. An overwhelming 92% of the vote
supported this historic move.
While Ukraine has generally maintained a stance of neutrality in European politics,
recent actions by the Russian Federation have prompted the country to seek entry into the
North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). By aligning with NATO, countries like the
United States, the United Kingdom, and France would be bound by treaty to provide
military support to Ukraine in case of armed conflict. Tensions have escalated between
Russia and Ukraine due to their shared border, particularly since Ukraine's initial attempt
to join NATO in 1992. These tensions were further fueled in 2008 when Ukraine
requested a membership action plan after receiving support from President George W.
Bush. However, Ukraine's bid for NATO membership was thwarted as France and
Germany withdrew their support following Russian objections in 2008.
The principal reason behind Russia's vehement opposition to Ukraine joining NATO is
the fear of Western competitors establishing a foothold in a country that shares a border
with Russia. In response, Western powers have recently deployed NATO troops along
Poland's border to safeguard the territory of the nearest NATO member state.
The Ascension of Vladimir Putin
Vladimir Putin's trajectory onto the global political stage has been unconventional. His
formal entry occurred only in 2000, distinguishing him from the established political
figures. Putin's origin traces back to his role as a KGB agent for the Soviet Union.
Following the Soviet Union's collapse, he assumed significant positions within the
Kremlin, including leading the Federal Security Service under President Boris Yeltsin.
With Yeltsin's unexpected resignation in 1999, Putin seized the opportunity to contest the
presidency. His campaign emphasized combatting governmental corruption and fostering
a robust market economy. To eliminate corruption, he even incarcerated oligarchs who
financed government projects. Putin also silenced several news outlets controlled by
different oligarchs that manipulated public opinion. Assuming office in 2000, he has
secured three more terms, drawing notable attention during his third and fourth terms due
to his complex rapport with former U.S. President Donald Trump and his involvement in
the Crimean conflict.
In March 2014, Putin asserted that Crimea was inherently Russian, endorsing the
Russian-backed Ukrainian Separatist movement. On March 18th, he signed a treaty
annexing Crimea into the Russian Federation, confirmed by the Russian Parliament's
ratification on March 21st, 2014. Post-Crimea, Putin's focus shifted towards Ukraine, and
his approach has garnered both domestic and international attention.
Escalating Tensions:
In December 2021, United States intelligence agencies began detecting indications of
Russia amassing troops along the Ukrainian border, hinting at preparations for a potential
invasion of the former Soviet nation. The military offensive anticipated by U.S.
intelligence could encompass over 175,000 Russian soldiers. Following military
maneuvers near Ukraine's border in the spring of 2021, the United States is now issuing
warnings about a prospective military campaign involving twice the number of troops
deployed to the border earlier that year. By late 2021 and early 2022, it is estimated that
over 100 Russian military battalions stand ready for Kremlin directives to launch an
invasion into Ukraine. The mounting tension and the specter of armed conflict hovering
over both nations in 2021 would mark the first instance of warfare within Europe since
the culmination of World War II in 1945.
As the buildup of troops persists along the Ukrainian border, Russia, in collaboration with
its close ally Belarus, commenced a series of military drills and exercises throughout
February 2022. These maneuvers are widely perceived on the global political stage as
aggressive and intimidating actions. The military exercises conducted in Belarus
encompass a range of war machines, including tanks, warplanes, missile launchers, and
even live-fire defensive [Link] these activities, the prevailing consensus among
world leaders is that Russia might employ a hybrid warfare approach, combining air and
ground assaults on major Ukrainian cities with cyberattacks targeting critical Ukrainian
online systems and assets. Throughout this troop buildup and the duration of military
operations, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has emerged as a resolute symbol
of Ukrainian unity.
III. Recent Events:
As of April 12th, 2022, a span of seven weeks has transpired since the initial incursion
into Ukraine. Troops persist in entering the country, crossing into the Donetsk region. At
present, the southern port city of Mariupol is besieged by Russian forces, with reports
suggesting the potential use of chemical weaponry. Mariupol has emerged as the focal
point of what many characterize as Europe's most profound humanitarian crisis since the
Holocaust. As the conflict between Russian forces and Ukraine persists, the Russian
military's conduct has become synonymous with war crimes. Evidence points to mass
civilian graves on the fringes of major urban centers, while public executions of civilians
have become distressingly routine for those fleeing the encroaching turmoil in Ukraine.
The unfolding tragedies in Ukraine are too grave for the United Nations Security Council
to disregard. The onus lies on the members of this committee to respond to those who
seek to undermine Ukraine's sovereign national identity.
IV. The Arms Trade Conflict Between Russia and Ukraine:
The arms trade conflict between Russia and Ukraine stands as a stark reminder of the
far-reaching consequences of militarization and conflict in the modern world. Emerging
from the annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014 and the subsequent armed conflict in
eastern Ukraine, this conflict underscores the intricate interplay between geopolitical
ambitions, regional stability, and the global arms trade. This essay delves into the
dynamics, implications, and potential resolutions of the arms trade conflict between these
two nations.
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine stems from a history of political and cultural
ties, aggravated by territorial disputes. Russia's annexation of Crimea and the rise of
separatist movements in eastern Ukraine fueled tensions, transforming the region into a
hotbed of conflict. Reports from various reputable sources suggest that Russia has been
implicated in providing arms and military support to separatist forces, thus exacerbating
the crisis.
Allegations of arms transfers from Russia to separatist groups have ignited international
outrage. While specific statistics may vary, organizations like the Stockholm International
Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) provide insights into the global arms trade. These
transfers have drawn criticism from Western nations and led to sanctions against Russia,
underscoring the international community's concern over the proliferation of weapons
exacerbating regional conflicts.
The arms trade conflict's repercussions are profound, extending beyond political and
military implications. Civilians in conflict zones face the brunt of the crisis, experiencing
displacement, loss of livelihoods, and destruction of infrastructure. The ongoing conflict
has also strained the economies of both Russia and Ukraine, diverting resources away
from developmental pursuits and compromising the overall well-being of their
populations.
Diplomatic channels have been explored to address the arms trade conflict. The Minsk
agreements, facilitated by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe
(OSCE), aimed to establish a ceasefire and foster peace. However, implementation
challenges and mutual mistrust have hindered the effectiveness of these efforts. A
comprehensive resolution demands genuine commitment from both sides and
international mediators.
V. Bloc Positions:
Western Bloc (United States, United Kingdom, France):
The Western Bloc, primarily comprising NATO members, firmly opposes the ongoing
conflict in Ukraine. Guided by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's principles, which
require member states to respond to attacks against any fellow member, this bloc is
deeply concerned about the potential of Russia extending its incursion beyond Ukraine
into NATO member Poland. On the global stage, Western nations, particularly those
among the P5, have assumed a resolute adversarial stance against Russia's invasion of
Ukraine.
Eastern Bloc (China):
Within the Eastern Bloc, encompassing India and China, a stance of neutrality prevails
regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Engaging in diplomatic discussions with the
Kremlin, both nations have maintained an impartial standpoint and have exercised their
right to abstain from voting on Security Council resolutions.
African Bloc:
While certain African countries, like Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya, have voiced
condemnation for Russia's actions in Ukraine, many African nations have chosen a
largely reticent and neutral approach. Remarkably, over 23 African nations abstained
from the vote to remove Russia from the UN Human Rights Council, while nine nations
voted against it. This can be attributed to African countries' historical ties with Moscow,
as the former USSR supported numerous African nations during the Cold War. Balancing
their history with Russia and their relationships with Western nations, countries within
this bloc cautiously navigate their stance on the conflict.
Arab League:
The Arab League's stance on the conflict has been inconsistent. Initially refraining from
denouncing Russia's actions and even hinting at a pro-Russia leaning, certain Arab
nations—namely, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt—shifted their
position to participate in the General Assembly's condemnation of Russia. Countries
within the Arab League share strong ties with Western nations while heavily relying on
food supplies from Russia. As of April 12th, 2022, the Arab League has offered
mediation for a resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, driven by concerns of food
shortages in the Middle East. While most nations in this bloc have maintained neutrality
in pursuit of a swift resolution, they must remain cautious given the Arab nations' robust
connections with Western counterparts.
Russian Federation:
As a member of the Permanent Five with the right to wield a veto and also a party
directly involved in the conflict, the Russian Federation has assumed a robust stance
against external interference in what it perceives as a domestic matter unrelated to the
UN. This strong position underscores the importance of seeking diplomatic solutions
rather than resorting to the veto power.
Questions to Consider:
1. How are the global arms trade companies being affected by the ongoing conflict?
2. How to monitor and analyze the flow of Western weapons on the black market
both inside Ukraine and in neighbouring countries?
3. Should the DISEC be advocating for the establishment of a ceasefire and the
deployment of peacekeeping forces to monitor and facilitate the cessation of
hostilities?
4. How to endorse arms embargoes on parties involved in the conflict to prevent
further escalation and arms proliferation?
5. How can the DISEC work with pre-existing international bodies, such as NATO,
to take a holistic approach to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine?
6. Should the DISEC advise that neighboring nations as well as the global west not
intervene militarily in the conflict?
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