UN balks at tough resolution after Russia objects

After Russia objected to handing Syrian President Bashar al-Assad an “ultimatum,” the UN watered down its proposed resolution.

The new language, which will be brought forward to the 15-member UN Security Council for consideration, reinforces international support for ongoing UN-Arab League negotiations led by envoy Kofi Annan.

The Sydney Herald Sun reports that the proposed statement “does not condemn the violence but would express ‘gravest concern’ at the deteriorating crisis in Syria and ‘profound regret’ at the thousands of dead. It calls on Assad and Syria’s opposition to ‘implement fully and immediately’ Annan’s six-point peace plan.”