Russian Foreign Minister: Russia Should Postpone Ratification of Arms Reduction Treaty

'Russia should put off ratification of the arms reduction treaty and concentrate its efforts on finding a political solution to the Iraq crisis,' said Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov at a session of the Federation Council. The minister added that 'from a psychological point of view, now is not the best time for ratifying the treaty.'

However, Ivanov stressed that the document supports Russia's interests and implementing it will increase strategic security and stability in the world. With this in mind, the minister appealed to the senators to support ratification of the treaty when it is brought before parliament 'in a calmer situation.'