Russia to Veto US Resolution on Chemicals in Syria

Russia said that it will veto a UN Security Council resolution drafted by the US, Britain and France to impose sanctions on Syria over allegations of chemical weapons use. French media reported that the US, France and Britain are pressing to put their proposed resolution to a vote early next week in order impose sanctions on Syrian authorities accused of using chemical weapons. The proposed measure would slap a global travel ban and assets freeze on 11 Syrians, mostly military officials, as well as 10 entities allegedly linked to chemical weapons development. “I just explained our position very clearly to our partners. If it is tabled we will veto it,” Russia’s Deputy UN Ambassador Vladimir Safronkov said on Friday following a closed-door council session. He further rejected the proposed measure as “one-sided,” saying it is based on “insufficient proof” and contradicts “the fundamental principle of presumption of innocence until the investigation is over.” Meanwhile Bashar-al Assad’s government has denied its forces have used chemical weapons.