The most notable one was during the final stages of Sri Lanka's civil war in 2009 when European nations along with Canada and Mexico brought a resolution calling for a ceasefire.

Another resolution accusing the government of war crimes that was tabled by Western nations was once again vetoed by Russia and China.

Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Sri Lanka stated that the concerns of Russia were justifiable, while also calling for de-escalation.

After discussions with an official delegation from the Sri Lanka Tea Board, Russia agreed to lift the restrictions from December 30.

It was suspected Russia was not happy with the pro-Western foreign policy of the UNP led Sri Lankan Government.