Topic: Linda Thomas Greenfield

U.S. Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield defended a ceasefire resolution that was vetoed by Russia and China, arguing that real ceasefires only happen through negotiations like those occurring in Doha. Meanwhile, Houthi rebels in Yemen have reportedly assured China and Russia that their vessels can safely navigate the Red Sea while they continue to attack other international shipping.

The United States stands alone in vetoing a UN Security Council resolution that called for "humanitarian pauses" to deliver aid to Gaza, citing the resolution's failure to mention Israel's right to self-defense. Russia responds by suggesting the issue be moved to the General Assembly, where no country holds veto power. The hosts characterize the U.S. veto as a technicality that serves as a further "triggering mechanism" for regional anger.

U.S. Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield visited Mozambique as part of a broader Biden administration push to engage with Africa. Her visit, which included planting mangrove trees and picking up beach garbage, followed a high-level trip by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen.

U.S. Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield visited the Turkish-Syrian border to advocate for the renewal of a UN aid program. During her trip, she met with the White Helmets, a group that has been both praised as rescuers and criticized for allegedly staging events. The mission is viewed with suspicion by some who suggest the aid routes may be used for purposes beyond humanitarian relief in opposition-controlled regions.

U.S. Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield faced criticism for stating that white supremacy is "woven into our founding documents." White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki defended the comments, emphasizing the Ambassador's race and experience as qualifications for her role. Critics argue that Thomas-Greenfield's rhetoric mirrors Chinese Communist Party talking points used to deflect American criticism of human rights abuses.