How the cross veto of the USA and Russia in the Security Council ended the UN mission in Western Sahara

The UN mission in Western Sahara ended due to a deadlock between the US and Russia in the Security Council. Morocco celebrated the 51st anniversary of the Green March, which led to its occupation of the territory. The conflict dates back to the 1975 occupation following Spain's withdrawal, with the Polisario Front seeking independence. The UN has recognized the Sahrawis' right to self-determination since 1963. The MINURSO mission, established in 1991 to oversee a promised referendum, failed to materialize due to disagreements over voter eligibility. The US proposed restructuring MINURSO to focus on Moroccan autonomy, which Russia vetoed. The mission officially ceased operations on October 31, 2023, raising concerns about renewed conflict in the region.