Russia and China veto Security Council action on Syria
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Ambassador Churkin voting in Security Council
Russia and China vetoed a United Nations Security Council draft resolution that would have imposed sanctions against Syria if it did not end the use of heavy weapons.
This is the third time Russia and China have opposed council action on Syria.
Russian Ambassador Vitaly Churkin said his country vetoed the measure because it would have opened the door for military intervention.
"We simply can not accept a document under Chapter 7 one which would open the path for pressure of sanctions and further to external military involvement in Syrian domestic affairs. The Western members of the Security Council rejected such intentions but for some reason refused to exclude military intervention." (Duration: 24")
Mark Lyall Grant addressing Security Council
The draft resolution called for non-military sanctions under Chapter VII of the UN Charter. Mark Lyall Grant is the United Kingdom Ambassador to the UN and one of the main sponsors.
"The United Kingdom is appalled by the decision of Russia and China to veto this draft resolution aimed at bringing an end to the bloodshed in Syria and to create the conditions for a meaningful political progress."
(Duration: 13")
UN-Arab League Joint Special Envoy for Syria Kofi Annan has expressed disappointment that the Security Council could not unite on a Syria vote. He says the voice of the Council is much more powerful when members act as one.
