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Russia has failed in its attempt to regain a seat on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) governing council, marking another diplomatic setback tied to its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. During the assembly in Montreal, Russia secured 87 votes—just shy of the 93 required to reclaim a spot on the 36-member council. This outcome reflects the international community’s continuing rebuke of Moscow’s actions in Ukraine and its impact on global aviation.
The ICAO council plays a crucial role in setting global aviation safety standards, making membership highly strategic for any nation. Russia lost its previous seat in 2022, when the assembly removed it from the council’s first part—an elite group of nations considered essential in air transport, including the United States, China, Brazil, and Australia. Following Saturday’s result, a Russian delegate called for a repeat round of voting, but the request was swiftly rejected.
Russia’s exclusion is not only linked to its military aggression in Ukraine but also to mounting concerns about aviation safety. The council has previously criticized Moscow for allegedly interfering with signals from the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and GPS, charges the Kremlin denies. Such interference poses risks for international air traffic, further fueling opposition to Russia’s candidacy.
The United States has been particularly vocal against Russia’s return to the ICAO council. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized that Moscow’s actions undermine global aviation safety, telling Reuters, “They are the most aggressive abuser and violator of international agreements and norms. How could we let someone join an organization meant to make airspace safer when they are making it more dangerous?”
With the ICAO assembly continuing until October 3, the decision underscores how Russia’s aviation standing has been severely compromised by both the Ukraine war and international distrust. For now, Russia remains sidelined from the key global body shaping aviation safety rules.
