Russia Balks at Wording of Draft Iran Resolution

Los Angeles Times:

Unexpected Russian opposition to key wording of a U.S.-backed Security Council draft resolution is straining international unity on efforts to deal with Iran's nuclear defiance, U.N. diplomats said.

The apparent change of heart is the latest obstacle in the months-long attempt to pressure Iran's hard-line Islamic government to suspend uranium enrichment. The enrichment process can produce material for nuclear weapons as well as for power plants.

The diplomats, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the matter, say it is particularly vexing that Moscow is now refusing to endorse language that would tell Tehran it faces sanctions if it fails to freeze enrichment.