Moscow: Any unilateral military action against Iraq by the United States would be a
violation of the United Nations charter, resulting in multiple human losses and most
serious international consequences, Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov cautioned
on March 8.
"If the United States would unilaterally begin military action against Iraq, it
would be a violation of UN charter, and when the UN charter is violated, the
Security Council would have to hold its emergency meeting to discuss the situation
and take appropriate decisions," Ivanov told the state-run "Russia" TV network on
returning from New York after March 7 Iraq debates in UN Security Council.
"We are confident that today the possibility of a political solution really exists.
That's why, from our point of view, to ignore it would be wrong and dangerous, since
the alternative path – the military one is fraught not only with massive human
casualties, but also most serious international consequences," Ivanov cautioned.
He spoke against US-sponsored draft of the UN Security Council, which gives 10-day
ultimatum till March 17 to Baghdad.
"We believe that such ultimatums are not justified, especially when the chiefs of
the weapons inspection groups have sought several months to complete their mission,"
Ivanov said.
"We hope that the countries, which have tabled this draft of the resolution would
understand that the path of a political solution could be complex, but would be more
reliable," the Russian Foreign Minister underscored, adding that along with other
nations Moscow would oppose it.
PTI
