The U.N.'s long-running peacekeeping mission for the disputed Western Sahara ceased operations Sunday after 35 years, as a result of a U.S.- Russia standoff at U.N. headquarters over the territory’s future.

The end of the mission raises concerns about stability in the region. Rich in minerals and fisheries, Western Sahara is a vast desert territory roughly the size of Colorado along Africa’s northwestern Atlantic coast. Once ruled by Spain, it is claimed by both Morocco and the pro-independence Polisario Front .

“This 1 November 2026 marks the start of the liquidation period,” Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for the U.N. secretary general, said in a statement.…