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Putin says Russia can support US-led force
Novo-Ogarovo (Russia), Sept 20: Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that Russia would not oppose a US-commanded international force in Iraq, but emphasised that the terms and timeline of its involvement must be laid out by the UN Security Council and that Moscow is not considering sending troops.
Novo-Ogarovo (Russia), Sept 20: Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that Russia would not oppose a US-commanded international force in Iraq, but emphasised that the terms and timeline of its involvement must be laid out by the UN Security Council and that Moscow is not considering sending troops.
“It doesn't matter who is at the head of the operation. What matters is that this decision is made by the UN Security Council and spells out the terms of military involvement, including the mission, the length of time and other issues.''
Putin said yesterday Russia's position remained unchanged -that a broader peacekeeping force in Iraq can be commanded by the united states but that the united nations must play a strong role in the postwar situation.
If the Security Council passes a resolution and all opinions including Russia's are taken into account, ``naturally we will fulfill that document,'' Putin said in an interview with US media at his residence outside Moscow.
“But in practical terms, the question of sending Russian troops is not on the agenda _ it is not even being considered,” Putin said. His defense minister had said Russia might send troops, but officials then backtracked and said it was too early to discuss Russian participation.
Putin said yesterday Russia's position remained unchanged -that a broader peacekeeping force in Iraq can be commanded by the united states but that the united nations must play a strong role in the postwar situation.
If the Security Council passes a resolution and all opinions including Russia's are taken into account, ``naturally we will fulfill that document,'' Putin said in an interview with US media at his residence outside Moscow.
“But in practical terms, the question of sending Russian troops is not on the agenda _ it is not even being considered,” Putin said. His defense minister had said Russia might send troops, but officials then backtracked and said it was too early to discuss Russian participation.
Bureau Report