Russian security chief to visit Iran for talks

The visit is taking place at the invitation of Iranian nuclear negotiator Ali Larijani, said the Security Council, which did not give any other details.

Photo: Russian security chief to visit Iran for talks

The Russian official's mission from Saturday to Sunday comes after the five permanent U.N. Security Council members apparently narrowed their differences on how to reward Iran if it gives up uranium enrichment,  or punish it if it doesn't.

The five Security Council members - the United States, Russia, China, Britain and France - plus Germany discussed a package of rewards or punishments during high-level London talks Wednesday.

Russia and China have opposed calls by the United States, Britain and France for a resolution that would threaten sanctions and be enforceable by military action.

But a compromise is emerging that would rule out military action and calls for new consultations among the five permanent Security Council members on any further steps against Iran, diplomats said.

Russian officials have repeatedly warned against the use of force in resolving the standoff over Iran's nuclear program, which the United States says is aimed at developing nuclear weapons, and have also opposed sanctions against Tehran.