Скачать или смотреть IRAQ: BAGHDAD: ATTEMPTS TO RESOLVE IRAQ ARMS CRISIS (2)

(27 Jan 1998) Arabic/Nat

A Russian envoy who's visiting Baghdad reportedly says President Boris Yeltsin is "firmly" opposed to the use of force against Iraq.

The envoy was sent by Yeltsin to Iraq to look for a political solution to the standoff sparked by Iraq's decision to limit access for U-N weapons inspectors.

This reported move comes as U-S Secretary of State Madeleine Albright prepares to head overseas to talk with allies about the next move in Iraq.

That could include an air attack from United States forces.

Arriving at the Iraqi border with Jordan on Tuesday, Viktor Posuvalyuk, the Russian Deputy Foreign Minister.

He's been sent by Russian President Boris Yeltsin to try and resolve the standoff with the U-N over access for weapons inspectors.

A military strike against Iraq could happen -- it would be led by the U-S.

The Russians are keen to calm the situation down.

SOUNDBITE: (Arabic)
"I came to Baghdad after a personal request by President Boris Yeltsin who is very worried about the rapid developments regarding Baghdad these days. The situation is worrying and it is getting more tense."
SUPER CAPTION: Viktor Posuvalyuk, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister

The U-S and Britain both agree on strong action.

But France, China and Russia -- also U-N Security Council permanent members -- have hedged.

SOUNDBITE: (Arabic)
"It is my duty to confirm that while it is our firm position that Iraq should abide by international laws, we say at the same time that the use of violence or resorting to military measures to pressurise Iraq is not at all constructive and will not calm the situation or help to settle the situation in the region. "
SUPER CAPTION: Viktor Posuvalyuk, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister

Iraq has been sparring with the U-N inspectors since October, barring them from so-called "sensitive sites" including presidential compounds.

And it's blocked some teams from working, accusing American inspectors of being spies.

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