Iraq: Ivanov Against Artificial Obstacles

Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov declared on Tuesday that Russia will support a new UN resolution stipulating the responsibilities of the UNMOVIC inspection team, but said that “artificial obstacles” against Baghdad should not be created.

He stated that from a technical point of view, everything is in place for the UN inspection team to fly to Baghdad and to begin their work, insinuating that the only reason why they have not yet gone is due to political pressure. Deputy Russian Foreign Minister Yuri Fedotov explained that any wording of the new resolution must avoid the reference to use of force or any measures which it will be impossible for Baghdad to accept.

In this way, the Russian Federation turns the wheel of diplomacy and puts the unilateral arrogance defended by Washington in its rightful place.

Timothy BANCROFT-HINCHEY PRAVDA.Ru