Russia expresses opposition to new sanctions against Iran

By JERUSALEM POST STAFF
Moscow opposes new UN sanctions against Iran over its nuclear program, Russia's ambassador to the United Nations said Wednesday, warning that new punitive measures could increase tension and would probably be counterproductive. Vitaly Churkin also cautioned against haste in efforts to resolve the dispute over Kosovo's status, emphasizing that talks should continue if Serbia and Kosovo's leadership cannot reach a mutually acceptable agreement by a December deadline. Churkin's remarks - made via a video link to Moscow from the United Nations - set out positions in opposition to the United States, which favors a new round of sanctions against Iran and backs Kosovo's demand for independence.